SportsXpress London July/Aug 2016

LondonSportsXpress @SportsXpressLON

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Crowning the spring champs

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JULY/AUGUST 2016

Submitted by Connect Sports London

London & Area Edition

thelineup

Wall of Champions Connect Sports London wrapped up the Spring Co-ed Adult Leagues, and the champions have been crowned. Congrats to all members and our championship teams. It was a fantastic season and our largest to date!

Bowling................................................... pg 4 Chess...................................................... pg 5 Fitness.............................................. pgs 6-8, Baseball............................................pgs 9-13 Dirtbike racing.......................................pg 14 Soccer.............................................pgs 14-25 Lacrosse................................................ pg 26 Dance............................................. pgs 26-27 Volleyball........................................pgs 27-31 Football.......................................... pgs 32-35 Boler Treetop Adventure Park........ pgs 34-35 Cheerleading................................. pgs 36-38 Gymnastics.................................... pgs 38-39 Golf................................................ pgs 40-44 Scholarship........................................... pg 44 Aquatics......................................... pgs 45-47 Curling........................................... pgs 48-49 Basketball............................................. pg 50 Accessible sports...................................pg 51 Climbing............................................... pg 52 Olympians............................................. pg 53 Hockey............................................pgs 54-61 Karate................................................... pg 62 Pickleball.............................................. pg 63

Champions: • • • • • • •

Team Gryffindor - Dodgeball Champs Tune Squad - Basketball A Division Champs Hoops N Harm - Basketball B Division Champs Luke’s Squad - Flex League Champs Billy T’s Bar & Grill - Floor Hockey Champs Free Agent Squad - Futsal Indoor Champs Spikeopaths - Volleyball Champs

New Beach Volleyball Facility We are proud to announce our new beach volleyball facility at the London Eco Park (16033 Medway Rd)! In collaboration with the Eco Park, we have installed two new beach courts and will have a lighting system. Lights will allow games to go late into the evening during the summer months!

Co-ed adult volleyball leagues get underway July 11 (Leagues will consist of 6’s & 4’s style). Sign up at www.connectsportslondon.com or email us at info@connectsportslosndon.com to learn more about the facility.

Team Gryffindor - Dodgeball Champs

Billy T’s Bar & Grill - Floor Hockey Champs

Special thanks to Claus Andersen for the cover photo of Damian Warner.

www.connectsportslondon.com

BEST. GIFT. EVER!

Road trips from London & Area to watch Pro Sports!

Free Agent Squad - Futsal Indoor Champs

Connect Sports is excited to launch its new beach volleyball facility, in collaboration with the London Eco Park.

Join one of our upcoming Toronto Blue Jays, Detroit Tigers, Buffalo Bills, Detroit Lions and Detroit Red Wings road trips.

Hoops N Harm - Basketball B Division Champs

Road trip details available on page 42 or at Tune Squad - Basketball A Division Champs

Luke’s Squad - Flex League Champs

Spikeopaths - Volleyball Champs

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Royal treatment on the east side

Your Community

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Sports Connection

London and Area

JULY/AUGUST 2016 Check out our website at LondonSportsXpress.ca

Submitted by Bowlerama Quieter times are now upon Bowlerama Royale. After over 800 people passed through the centre for the Ontario Provincial Tenpin Bowling Championships in just three weekends, our 32 lanes are now calling for new bowlers. And it just so happens that this summer – all summer long – KIDS BOWL FREE! Having partnered with our bowling community in Canada and the United States, we have added our Centre to those that help keep kids busy, off the streets, and meeting in a fun atmosphere. Be sure to register your children online (www.kidsbowlfree.com) to receive two free games a day right up until the end of September. There is even a Family Pass available.

To make bowling even more fun, owners Mark Decman (PBA Bowler) and Brenda Dottermann (3rd Level NCCP Coach) are offering three bowling training camps to bring any bowler to their next

®

PUBLISHER: Greg Matthison, GregM@SportsXpress.ca, 519 619 6029

level of knowledge, skill and FUN! “I believe children have more fun when they have the basics and the ability to do well,” said Decman.

Check out the full details at www.bowleramaroyale.com.

Need something fun and competitive after the summer? Bowlerama Royale offers a youth bowling program from September to May, every Saturday for children aged 3 to 21. Fun, teamwork, onlane skills and great sportsmanship are all spearheaded by our certified coaches.

Local and regional tournaments are available to quench your thirst for competition, and almost all events award the winners with scholarship dollars!

Make Fun Count!

Want to be part of our personal community fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society? On August 20, 2016, you can enjoy The Tragically Hip’s last concert on any one of our 32 overhead TV’s and be part of this momentous event in history. Register your team of six for three hours of bowling and one of the best concerts you’ll ever see!

www.bowleramaroyale.com

Greg Matthison and family: Sam, Jack & Kate EDITOR WEB GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Todd Devlin Jim Taylor Britt Cobean

CONTRIBUTORS

Tyler Schepens, Richelle Hirlehey, Jennifer Baxter, Jeff Fischer and Damian Warner, Katrina Squazzin, Pam Bialik, Jessika Gunton, Andrea Chisholm, Dr. Natascha Wesch, Dave Bellehumeur, John Brown, Steve Demery, Bruce Woollatt, Mitch Lupa, Stephen Miron, Andy Sheriff, Billy Cardona, Mike Beukeboom, Carolyn Kirk, Ken Van DeHaar, Jason Kenemy, Runners’ Choice, Preferred Insurance, The Little Gym of London, MEC, EBBA, London Curling Club, Bowlerama, St. Thomas Sting, Byron Optimist Soccer Club, Connect Sports London, BodyWorx, Eurostar Football Academy, London Majors, Family Physiotherapy Centre of London, Junction Climbing Centre, George Bray Sports Association, London Wheelchair Basketball Association, AG London, St. Thomas Shock, London Beefeaters, REV3K, Woodstock Soccer Club, Ontario Soccer Association, BHi, London Gymnastics Academy, LDBA Baseball, Forest City Diving Club, London Masters Volleyball, Forest City Volleyball Club, CrossCourt Volleyball, London Minor Football Association, London Sharks Volleyball, Xtreme Warrior Challenge, Sportmax Nutrition, Little Kickers, FC LONDON, Puckstoppers, London Minor Lacrosse Association, Power Cheer Gym, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, Middlesex Swimming, OF COURTS, City of London Municipal Golf, CheerStrike, TGA Premier Junior Golf, Olympic Karate, Progressive Hockey Development, London Aquatic Club, , the SportsXpress Team and local sports enthusiasts.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christine Li, Claus Anderson, Nicole Makris, Dave Maxwell, WeRose Photography, Sports One, SGL24/7 MEDIA, Picture Day Photography, Forest City Image Centre, Boler Mountain, AM Roofing, Connect Sports London, BodyWorx, CrossCourt Volleyball, Runners’ Choice, St. Thomas Sting, London Senior Games, George Bray Sports Association, London Wheelchair Basketball Association, MEC, Forest City Diving Club, London Beefeaters, Ontario Soccer Association, Play It Again Sports, Dance Extreme, St. Thomas Shock, London Curling Club, London Knights, Bowlerama, REV3K, London Volleyball Club, Little Kickers, AG London, OF COURTS, Progressive Hockey Development, London Junior Mustangs, London Minor Lacrosse Association, London Masters Volleyball, Puckstoppers, Forest City Volleyball Club, London Gymnastics Academy, City of London Municipal Golf, LDBA Baseball, London Minor Football Association, Xtreme Warrior Challenge, Middlesex Swimming, The Little Gym of London, TGA Premier Junior Golf, Eurostar Football Academy, Junction Climbing Centre, CheerStrike, Olympic Karate, Power Cheer Gym, Sportmax Nutrition, Western Mustangs, London Junior Golf, London Aquatic Club, Elgin Middlesex Chiefs, the SportsXpress Team, various sports group photographers and community sports fans.

PARTNERSHIP EDITIONS

Chatham London Niagara Falls Peterborough Waterloo Windsor Plus recent parners in the United States

PARTNERSHIP INQUIRY

Tony DeFelice, Mark Decman, Bruce Lockwood, Jumpstart Competitors

Young London Badgers

Contact SportsXpress at: 1.877.588.8856 or email Sales@ SportsXpress.ca

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Mailing Address 50 Ottawa St. South, Unit 110, Kitchener, On, N2G 3S7 519–208–9302 or 1-877-588-8856 Editorial Contributions: Submissions are welcome from writers, photographers, athletes, coaches and individuals. We assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. Contributors are responsible for obtaining all approvals for the publication of photos and content prior to submission. All submissions may not be used. We may edit, publish, reproduce, distribute and archive submissions in any form or medium without any compensation. We are not responsible for lost or damaged submissions. Contents copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction or transmission of any article, photograph or artwork in any form or by any means without permission from the publisher is prohibited. SportsXpress is published six times per year. For detailed circulation information, contact Sports Express Media Inc. Sports Express Media Inc. is committed to protecting your privacy as our customer. We may collect personal information only if it is required for the proper functioning of our business and only share this information with our business partners. The editors and contributors who write for Sports Express Media Inc. attempt to provide accurate and useful information and commentary. However, the editors, contributors and Sports Express Media Inc. cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of the information. We assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any readers based on the information provided.

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London Badgers Fundraiser

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fan deals

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It’s Game On for Darts in London

Matthews makes chess a priority

What was once considered boys’ night at the old smoky pub has now become one of the fastest

By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Steve Demery growing sports across the country! the province throughout the season, kids Chess is big at Matthews a private On average, 35 kids have competedaround in ments that are rated by the Federation.

DartHall, leagues are sprouting up everywhere the ages ofbeing 7 and 18 are taking school in London, and Steve Demmery is each of those tournaments. The lastbetween tourUltimately, a chess master in the and London is leading the pack with one of the the driving force behind the club, which ney had 50 participants.

Canada means that you are in the top one sport by storm! largest London runs during noon hoursarea’s and from 6:30-membership, Some the players comeDistrict from other schools percent in the entire country.

Whether it’sBut, a registered league orabout just some Men’s League. to It’splay also the longest running 8pm on Wednesdays. There areDart around chess at Matthews Hall, such as of course, it’s not all becomfriends meeting in the garage once a week, dart club, league in North West America 20 kids in the weekly chess which Oaksdating Public back Schooltoand Masonville ing a master, and Matthews Hall values darts is the newforgame It’s cheap, easy to Demmery started organizing years Public School, among isn’t others. Demmery chess manynight! other reasons.

1946.two The London Ladies Dart League ago. He gives lectures and guidancewith to the believes kidsmembers should start playing Saysof Demmery: understand that learn and most all, fun! “They For more information far behind, hundreds of that league students at Matthews Hall. chess at a young age. chess is a great learning tool.” drop by Sanders Recreation & Fitness. gathering every week to try their best at the “Studies have proven that chess has “In the chess world, almost all the top bullseye.

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In addition to the weekly club, The benefit of competing in tournaMatthews Hall also operates three or four ments at Matthews Hall (and at the tournaments annually. There’s one in the London City Chess Club) is that those fall (the Fall Brawl), one in the winter (the tournaments are all rated by the Chess Winter Blizzard), and one in the spring Federation of Canada. To become a titled Kids at Matthews Hall take in a couple of chess matches between their peers (the Spring Thunder Chess Tournament). player, you need to compete in tourna-

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Photo by Christine Li The Matthews Hall Chess Club has held three tournaments annually for the last couple of years, with the last tourney featuring 50 players

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Meet‌Ashley Limbrick Submitted by REV3K Ashley Limbrick is an ex-corporate professional whose own health transformation sparked her passion for holistic wellness. Ashley lives and breathes #thesweatlife. She is passionate about helping others become the best versions of themselves, either through motivation, fitness or cellular health. She is a founding member of the Holistic Freedom Academy (www.holisticfreedomacademy. com), and is a Silver Director of Usana Health Sciences.

Ashley joined the REV3K team in June 2014 as a casual coach after attaining her crossfit level 1 training, and she

is now one of the newest permanent coaches at REV3K! Ashley has a positive, motivating, outgoing personality, and she always has a smile on her face! Oh, and if you're wondering why she's always decked out in luon, it's because she is also on the leadership team with lululemon athletica London!

Ashley loves chatting health and wellness, so feel free to reach out to her anytime via email: ashley.limbrick@ gmail.com, Facebook, or instagram (Ashleyrl85).

www.rev3k.com

REV3K’s Ashley Limbrick lives and breathes #thesweatlife

REV3K was well-represented at the Colon Cancer Canada 5k walk and 10k run in June

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MEC LONDON Century Ride Submitted by MEC Join us for MEC London July 10th for our annual group ride. Participants can choose from the following distances: 160K, 100K and 60K. This event will showcase the beauty and splendor of the summer breezes throughout the surrounding areas of London Ontario. We will have multiple pit stops along the way, including a loop of the Delaware Speedway. The ride will be an open road loop starting and ending at Toboggan Brewery, downtown London. Post ride BBQ and comradery will end the day.

The ride will be capped at 500 riders, so make sure to get your registration in early and secure your spot today.

For more information please visit our website events.mec.ca

MEC.ca

Do you dream of Ireland?

Contact us for individual or small groups to Ireland Golf, Family Heritage, Rugby ...

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Warrior Challenge for Jesse’s Journey Submitted by Xtreme Warrior Challenge Calling all Warriors! The Xtreme Warrior Challenge is back – the way it’s meant to be! This year’s event is Saturday, September 24 at Fanshawe Conservation Area – and it’s going to be MUDDY and CHALLENGING! Teams of 4 will run an 8k route through some tough terrain (remember the Bush-Bash?) while they deal with a dozen military-inspired obstacles along the way: inclined culverts, tractor-tire flip, swamp crossing, and the monkey bar mud pit! There will be lots of climbing, pulling, lifting, and mud – training is strongly recommended.

Participants must be 18 years of age to register. Teams can be made up of men, women or coed, with a Competitive and a Recreational division. All teams run the same route with staggered start times.

Registration is $275 until July 15 – then the Participants in this year’s Xtreme Warrior Challenge will do battle with a dozen military-inspired obstacles price goes up to $300. throughout the course

It’s fun to run in summer!

Submitted by Runners’ Choice

Summer Running Tips Summer runs can be some of the most enjoyable and rewarding. With longer days and warmer weather, there are numerous opportunities to get out and enjoy a good run. Some tips to help enjoy the summer: • Run early in the morning, when temperatures tend to be cooler and air quality is better.

• Hydrate well throughout the day. You will be better off than drinking a large amount just before your run.

• Dress appropriately for the weather.

Light clothing that wicks moisture and protects from the sun will keep you more comfortable.

• Be flexible with your running schedule.

With lots of activities happening, being able to juggle your run times or distances will help keep you on track.

• Carry water. With higher temperatures

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The Summer Night road race will be held July 15, starting at Barking Frog

teamprofiles

Player profiles

Cory Hammond Position: Pitcher Birthday: 10/15/86 Hometown: London, ON Country: Canada Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 6' 2" Weight: 187 lbs College: Davenport University

Submitted by the London Majors and photos by Wayne Brown, Browns Photos

The London Majors are looking to make a deep playoff run. Learn a little more about some of the players who are helping in the push for the pennant and playoff championship. www.londonmajors.com Michael Ambrose

RJ Fuhr

Elis Jimenez

Position: C/IF Birthday: 5/17/94 Hometown: London, ON Country: Canada Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 6' 0" Weight: 195 lbs College: Lake Michigan College

Position: Pitcher Birthday: 8/31/91 Country: USA/Canada Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 5'10" Weight: 180 lbs College: Mount Mary University

Position: Pitcher Birthday: 6/26/92 Hometown: Valencia Country: Venezuela Bats: Right Throws: Right Height: 6'1" Weight: 190 lbs

Chris McQueen

Byron Reichstein

Lejon Baker

Position: IF / OF Birthday: 4/26/94 Hometown: London,ON Country: Canada Bats: Left Throws: Right Height: 5' 11" Weigh: 160 lbs College: Eastfield College

Position: OF Birthday: 8/3/93 Hometown: St. Thomas, ON Country: Canada Bats: Left Throws: Right Height: 6' 0" Weight: 210 lbs College: Souther Arkansas University

Position: OF/P Birthday: 12/18/92 Hometown: Los Angeles, CA Country: USA Bats: Switch Throws: Right Height: 6'2" College: Sterling College - Kansas

and humidity, having water will keep you better hydrated and cooler. This will also help your performance.

• Set a goal. This will help keep you motivated throughout the summer months.

runnerschoice.on.ca

Summer Events Event Summer Night 5k Reach the Beach Run the Runway Springbank Road Races

Date Location July 15 Barking Frog Aug. 12 GT’s Pt. Stanley Sept. 9 London Airport Oct. 2 Springbank Park

Summer can be a great time for running, with longer days and warmer weather. Runners’ Choice has a few tips to make your running life better.

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Local umpire roundup Submitted by LDBA Baseball Two more umpires have joined the National Umpire Program, bringing the region’s total number of national umpires to 11.

Isaac Zywczok and Ben Flesher both earned their way into the program following a successful evaluation at the annual Baseball Ontario Cup evaluation weekend. The Ontario Cup is a tournament style evaluation camp to select the team that will represent Ontario at the Baseball Canada Cup. It is also a weekend for Level 3 umpires from across the province to train and learn from some of the country’s top umpires.

Zywczok is a St. Thomas native who has been working hard for the past three seasons in the LDBA. “It’s been wonderful to see Isaac progress to where he is today after first

Ontario Cup participants receive feedback on their games at the 2016 Ontario Cup

getting to know him as a high school catcher and learning at the time that he was also a Level 2 umpire who was keen to improve,” said former Minor League and Olympic Umpire, Jim Cressman.

“Working with him and seeing him grow into a Level 4 is one of greatest personal rewards I have received during my 53 years on the field.”

Ben Flesher could have followed in his father’s footsteps, but he chose the officiating path. Jeff Flesher is the Manager of the Junior London Tecumsehs, and is also a Learning Facilitator for the Baseball Ontario Coaching Development program.

The junior Flesher is no stranger to the Ontario Cup process, having completed the tournament in 2015 as well.

“Ben’s success at the Ontario Cup is a result of the hard work and dedication that he has put in working with senior umpires in the city,” said LDBA Umpire-in-Chief Rob Companion.

“We are very proud of the work all our umpires do New Level 4 Umpire, Ben Flesher, calls here, and this is pitches at the 2016 Ontario Cup

www.customrockcreations.ca 519-652-8811 • 258 Exeter Road, London ON N6L 1A3

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Also includes Aylmer, Delaware-Komoka-Mt Brydges, Dorchester, Exeter, Lucan-Ilderton, Ingersoll, Mitchell, Sarnia, Strathroy, Tillsonburg, and Wyoming

just another example of the talent that we have in London.”

Zywczok and Flesher join Cressman and Companion, as well as Justin Snively, Rob Stevenson, Steve Cochrane, Bob Blake, Dan Mudry, Eldon Dunseith, and Listowel’s Allyn Ward, in the National Umpire Program, which is comprised of Level 4, 5 and 6 umpires from across Canada.

“We are very proud of our umpires in the LDBA, the dedication to their craft is unbelievable,” said LDBA President Derek Brooks. “On any given night, you can find any one of these umpires working a Bantam or Midget game, which just goes to show you that they don’t think they are too good for kids’ baseball.”

“If they aren’t umpiring, you can almost certainly find one or two of them sitting in the stands at Labatt Park or one of the other fields in the area watching and ready to give tips and feedback to the umpires on the field.”

To quote one famous baseball movie, it’s all For the Love of the Game.

www.ldbabaseball.ca

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Purple in the Park a Grand Slam Success Submitted by Preferred Insurance and photos by WeRose Photography The London Majors, proud supporters of the London Abused Women’s Centre (LAWC), held their annual Purple in the Park Day at Labatt Memorial Park on June 10, as presented by Preferred Insurance and the LAWC. Fans were encouraged to wear purple in support of the LAWC. Tickets for the event were on sale at Preferred Insurance, with the company donating 50% of the proceeds to LAWC. Special purple jerseys worn by the players during the game were sold by auction.

London Abused Women’s Centre (LAWC) banner at Labatt Park

Taylor Carr in the London Majors’ dugout during Purple in the Park 2016

Highlights of the night: • 2016 Debut of Preferred Insurance as Presenting Partner • Higher Attendance • New Record for funds raised – just over $4,400 • New Record for 50/50 – $1,410 • Preferred Insurance welcomed the Atom B Devilettes as our 50/50 partner, and they did a fantastic job!

The Atom B Devilettes partnered with Preferred Insurance for the 50/50 draw

Organizing Partners: Team Preferred, LAWC and the London Majors

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EBBA loads the diamonds Submitted by EBBA and photos by Sports One The 2016 Eager Beaver Baseball Association (EBBA) season is off to one of the busiest starts ever. The season opened with seven of the eight age divisions carrying full rosters – with many more players on waiting lists. EBBA has been providing house league baseball for London youths since 1955, and this year a record number of players were drawn to the diamonds.

EBBA provides instructional baseball for players aged 4 to 22. The youngest players are in the Little Slugger division, which brings together 4 and 5-year-olds for their first introduction to baseball.

“It's a lot of fun and very rewarding when I hear a parent tell me their child is excited for baseball and cannot wait to come back next week,” says convener Keith Blois. “To help build that excite-

ment and hopefully start a lifelong love of baseball is incredible. They are such great kids.”

The most senior players are in the – ironically named – Junior division, for players aged 19 to 22 years old. The 2015 EBBA Junior team went undefeated, and this year's team is hoping to experience the same success. Jason Clarke, who coached last year is back behind the bench again this year.

“Seeing these young men work together to grow as men and players makes coaching so enjoyable,” Clarke said. The Junior team is off to a strong start and hopes to enter the playoffs in August in the top position in their division once again.

Across all age groups, EBBA is striving to teach the game of baseball and instill a love of the game while also teaching sportsmanship and team play.

www.ebba.ca Convener Keith Blois and one of the EBBA Little Slugger groups

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2016 EBBA Junior team

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Badgers playing TEAM-first

By SportsXpress Team, contributions from Stephen Miron The Major Mosquito (2005 birth year) London Badgers AAA team plays in the London and District Baseball Association (LDBA) Minor Peewee league (2004 birth year).

The squad is made up of 12 players from around the LDBA. Some of them played against each other last season.

But they’ve joined forces this year, and playing with a TEAM-first mindset has been the focus.

“We sat down with the TEAM at the beginning of the season to discuss some of the goals we would like to achieve,” said coach Stephen Miron. “Team concepts and plays are starting to surface, as the boys advance each week we’re together. To achieve our goals, we all need to communicate and encourage each other throughout the process.”

Some of those goals are beMajor Mosquito London Badgers: Back row (left to right): Coaches ing aggressive – particularly Stephen Miron, Jon Magwood, Brian Harvey, Rob Cascaden. Middle row: Chase Rollings, Ben Harvey, Josh Vandenberghe, Will Snider, Owen Magwood, Jaden on the base paths, stealing Martelle. Front row: Ryan Miron, Lucas Desroches, Dylan Baker, Solomon Harwood, a lot of bases. There are also Ethan Cascaden, Billy Sadler

goals for how many batters the team’s pitchers want to strike out per game. Two of the season-long goals are to finish 4th or better in LDBA league play, and to be playing on Championship Sunday of the Provincial Championships on Labour Day weekend in Windsor.

“We have been challenging the team with different tasks during each game to keep them sharp and focused,” said Miron. “The coaching staff has been focused on fundamental skills with the players since the spring. We have encouraged the boys to throw first-pitch strikes and hit locations, and that is something that we do well.”

The Badgers had already played in three tournaments before July (Vaughan, London and Hamilton), and they were scheduled to travel to Mississauga for a tournament in early July before heading to Michigan for another tourney in mid-July.

Progress is intense.

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Robbins racing

By SportsXpress Team Adam Robbins continues to get better and better as his downhill mountain biking career continues.

This summer, Robbins took the top spot at the Eastern States Cup State Champs race at Thunder Mountain Bike Park. It was just the latest win in what is becoming an impressive resume for the youngster.

“Robbins continues to make a name for himself on the international stage in downhill mountain bike competitions, which feature riders racing from top to bottom of courses filled with rocks, ruts and jumps.”

In mid-June, Robbins posted another impressive finish – 13th place out of 48 riders at a Junior Men’s World Cup downhill race in Fort William, Scotland.

That placed him in the #2 spot among Canadians.

His total race time of 5:11.107 put him 19.032 seconds behind the event winner. His top speed of 30.27mph was 11-fastest in the race field.

Robbins continues to make a name for himself on the international stage in downhill mountain bike competitions, which feature riders racing from top to bottom of courses filled with rocks, ruts and jumps. It’s an exhilarating sport, and Robbins is only getting better.

Robbins had a strong performance against international competition at a recent Junior Men’s World Cup downhill race in Fort William, Scotland, placing 13th overall in a field of 48 riders (#2 Canadian).

Adam Robbins took home the gold medal from the Eastern States Cup Championships race at Thunder Mountain Bike Park.

Krown – a soccer fan too Contributions by Andy Sheriff, Billy Cardona & Mike Beukeboom

Nor’West U15 Boys The Nor’West U15 Boys team plays in the Elgin Middlesex District Soccer League in the Tier 2 division. One of the team’s goals this year has been to develop the newcomers who came up from house league into stronger and more confident players.

“We’re working on developing that first touch, and at the same time trying to get some of these kids to feel confident in taking shots during the games,” said head coach Billy Cardona, who grew up playing soccer in North Scarborough, as

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well as Whitby and Oshawa. “I’m trying to help our kids with their confidence and development, and their understanding of the game that I grew up loving.”

Cardona, who continues to Nor’West U15 Boys: From back row (left to right): Nicholas Vincent 12, Matthew Bornais 10, Tony Elasmar 15, Ryan Shillington 17, Jaxon Asmussen 2, Nathan Cormier 9, Mitchel Brine 11, Ali play himself for Forest City FC Mozaffari 7, Mark Bridge 23, Prajeya Parmar 53 and Coach Mike Bridge. Front row (left to right): Giorgio Chassikos 33, Stuart Cockburn-Koudys 13, Kareem Chahbar 8, Keegan Cardona 57, (men’s Masters) Division 1, beMark Beukeboom 5 and Fayez Elmadhoon 14 lieves that his Nor’West squad’s ding has also been a strength. biggest strength is their team speed, as The team is looking forward to a strong the boys are very fast on the pitch. The finish to the season as they hope to coach also thinks a team strength has play for a title. As for a long-term goal, been the tough defensive game that his Cardona says his team wants to make the players have played. Consistent goaltenjump to Tier 1 next season.

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“Every Club is critical, it is up to each Club to choose their place or role in a player’s development” Maeve Schneider Duerden of our Active Start program.

Why is soccer changing?

What change can we expect

We can do a better job of giving children the best experience possible in our sport that will ensure all players enjoy the game and develop better skills to play soccer for life.

• Increased Retention – More children enjoying themselves, developing skills playing soccer for life.

• Best Practice – The changes we are making to soccer in Ontario and in Canada are consistent with best practice around the world in soccer playing nations.

• Healthy active children – Benefits are wider reaching than just soccer, it involves Canada having a healthier nation and Ontario families having more active children. We are fighting an increase in child obesity and the risk of an inactive nation. The changes we are introducing will lead to children being more active during soccer practices and games, enjoying soccer and progressing on a pathway to an active healthy lifestyle with the right environmental support.

Benefits to the players Children enjoying soccer more = keep playing soccer for life More touches and time on the ball = improved skill development Players allowed to make more decisions in practice and games = players learn to problem-solve, and be responsible More qualified coaches that understand players’ needs at each development stage = increased enjoyment and skill development Clear development pathway = players a) understand the path to try to become the next Christine Sinclair or Dwayne De Rosario b) continue to play, stay active and simply enjoy themselves in soccer.

The game “grows” as the players grow = Appropriate sizes fields, goals and ball for children

• A clear pathway for players of all aspirations in soccer.

Playing Format Age • Exciting new age appropriate coaching courses to help our coaches provide the right environment for players to enjoy 3v3 (no GK) U6 soccer and improve as they grow and develop.

5v5 with GK (4v4 without GK) U7, U8 • Sizes of fields and goals and the number of players on the 7v7 (including GK) field U12 and below (3v3, 5v5, 7v7 and 9v9) U9, U10 • Improved competition formats for players to enjoy and 9v9 (including GK) U11, U12 develop, geared to skill development.

• The changes will be phased in over a 7-year period starting with the grassroots, where we continually review and monitor progress.

• Ongoing communication, consultation and support from OSA to help us through this change: www.ontariosoccer.net

Why kids play soccer Ontario LTPD Implementation Principles

To have fun To experience thrills To be with friends or make new friends To do something they are good at To feel good about themselves (Increase self-esteem) To feel accepted To improve and learn new skills To be part of a team

(1) (2) (3)

“Remember that children do not mean to make ‘mistakes’ we should make mistakes as a necessary part of learning”

We are not alone This is a national initiative across all sports in Canada. Every sport has tailored the approach to the needs of their athletes and are at different stages of implementation.

(4) (5) (6) (7)

The needs of the player should be put first in all decisions.

Lowering barriers to participation, especially in the early development stages.* Developmental needs of the player will guide decisions, especially in Talent Identification and selection and ongoing scouting Balance – Importance of retention and pathways for all (Player, Coach, Referee & Administration).

Strong foundation in “Participation” starting from active start.

Communication, consultation and education is critical at all times.

Consistency and alignment throughout the province, cognizant of geographical challenges.

Unity; we need to work together toward a shared vision [OSA, District Associations, Clubs, Leagues, Municipalities and School Boards].

2006 Boys Pool - Shawn Pollock, Shawn Simpson, Al Morgan and Dillon Zambon

Proudly sponsored by

Nor’West Gunners U13 Boys The Nor’West Gunners U13 team, members of the Nor’West Optimist Soccer Club, play in the Elgin Middlesex District Soccer League (EMDSL). The team’s head coach is Andrew Sheriff, who has been working with many of the same boys since the Grassroots level (U9).

“The players are great,” said Sheriff.

“I’ve loved watching this team develop since U9. They challenge me by asking great questions, and their freedom in playing the game shows how much they’ve learned. It’s amazing to see play-

Says Sheriff: “Regardless of the ers develop with such positive attitudes outcome of the game, they walk off the and to see them challenge themselves.”

From day one, Sheriff told the parents pitch with their heads held high and with that he was there to develop the players, a positive attitude, knowing they had fun not build trophy cases. And he has made and played their best.” sure that the boys have had fun along the way.

“It’s important that every player gets their equal share of playing time on the field,” says Sheriff.

“And that still rings true to this day.”

The team is dedicated to improving their technical and tactical skills while they transition from 9v9 in U12 last year to 11v11 this season (which means a Nor’West Gunners – U13: Back Row (left to right): White Shirt (England) – Co-Coach Andrew change in field size and ball size). Jamieson, Mark Ten Haaf, Luke Deckert, Christiano Delima, Matthew Proulx, Patrick Adams, Dylan Sheriff, Bradley Xiang, Anthony Dutz, Head Coach - Andrew Sheriff. Front Row (left to They support each other, and they right): Riley Sanders, Matthew Smith, Nawid Habib, Garret Beukeboom, Jacob Mangialardi, Christian Rotermann, Mark Jamieson, Shawn Davison, Michael Turkstra respect each other and the game. @SportsXpressLON

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Athletes! Get back in the game!

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This technology is widely used by the world’s top athletes, by high-performance fitness and training centres, by universities, and by professional sports teams, including the NFL, NHL, NBA, WNBA, MLB, and MLS. Whether you are recovering from a sports-related injury, or you simply wish to train with less stress, you can now take your fitness and training program to the next level with this state-of-the-art technology – ideal for all types of athletes, including top-level pros, weekend warriors, and university/high school athletes.

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Central Clinic 310 Wellington Rd, London ON N6C 4P4 519-439-6111 | fax 519-439-2111 ReceptionCentral@fpclondon.com North Clinic 770 South Wenige Dr, London ON N5X 0H7 519-433-9111 | fax 519-433-8515 ReceptionNorth@fpclondon.com

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Oasis Central 310 Wellington Rd, London ON N6C 4P4 519-433-4112 | fax 519-439-2111 central@oasismassage.ca Oasis North 770 South Wenige Dr, London ON N5X 0H7 519-433-4111 | fax 519-433-8515 north@oasismassage.ca

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“We are extremely proud to be the first provider in the London region to bring this revolutionary new technology into the clinic to serve the athletes in our community.” – Bill Landry, partner, FPC London.

THERAPEUTIC RELAXATION MASSAGE MASSAGE

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PRENATAL MASSAGE

Soccer with Stevie Submitted by Byron Soccer and photos by Nicole Makris Byron Soccer is very excited to have Stevie Grieve as our Guest Clinician for this summer’s soccer camps. Stevie’s extensive experience coaching youth players globally, along with his expert knowledge of soccer at all levels, will provide camp attendees exposure to a variety of different philosophies and a great soccer experience.

The camps are specifically designed to provide a fun yet challenging week of training. Sessions will focus on individual and team technical and game skills.

Assisting Stevie at camp will be Byron's UEFA A, English FA II, OSA Provincial C, and other certified Staff Coaches.

Stevie has completed extensive coaching education and achieved the follow licenses: UEFA B License; Scottish Football Association Advanced Children’s License; Scottish Football Association Youth Pathway Levels 1 – 4; FIFA Advanced Futsal Diploma; Coerver Coaching Modules 1 & 2.

Stevie currently holds the following positions:

•

•

•

•

•

TV analyst for UEFA Champions League and Europa League matches for India’s Ten Sports Network Head of Coach Education Bhaichung Bhutia Football Schools, India Technical Director, Garhwal Football Club, India Best-selling author of ‘Coaching the 4-2-3-1’ book Regular contributor to World Class Coaching website

Byron Soccer Camp Info Cost of the five (5) day camp is $125.

Great price given the level of the Camp Coaching Staff compared to other camps (that start at $300).

Camp week options are July 11-15 or July 25-29.

To register for one of the camps, please visit us online, go to ONLINE REGISTRATIONS and then select CAMPS.

www.byronsoccer.ca

Local soccer pioneers recognized Contributions by the Ontario Soccer Association Local soccer pioneers Tom Partalas and Cam Vassallo were recently recognized by the Ontario Soccer Association (OSA) with Centre Circle Awards, which

represent the highest level of recognition and are presented annually to men, women and organizations nominated on the basis of their outstanding contribu-

tions to the development of soccer in Ontario and Canada.

www.bmocentrelondon.com

Tom Partalas

Cam Vassallo

Known to many in the London soccer community as ‘Mr. Soccer,’ Tom has been involved in all facets of organized soccer in the London-area since he emigrated from Greece in 1967. As a player, he was an all-star for the Western University Mustangs and later played professionally for the London City Soccer Club. In the 70s, Tom transitioned to coaching, which he did for many years. In 1994, Tom tried his hand at refereeing, something he still does to this day. As an administrator, he held several prominent positions. Tom is currently the President and CEO of the London Optimist Sports Centre, a non-profit that owns and operates the BMO Centre in London.

Tom Partalas is the president of the London

Cam has a long career in soccer administration in the London-area. He has sat on the Board for the London and District Youth Soccer League, and was a founding member of the Greater London Soccer Club. Currently, Cam is the Vice President for the Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association and the Commissioner for the Western Ontario Soccer League. Cam has also recently co-founded the London Youth Soccer Club, and established a partnership with that Club and the Vancouver Whitecaps. Vassallo was nominated for the Meritorious Service Award by the Elgin Middlesex Cam Vassallo is the vice president of the Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association.

Soccer Association, and is the co-founder of the London

Optimist Sports Centre, which operates the BMO Centre

Youth Soccer Club

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Sting score big at Soccerfest Submitted by the St. Thomas Sting (U13G) and photos by Dave Maxwell On a very hot weekend May 28-29, the St. Thomas Sting U13 Girls team captured gold at the St. Thomas Soccerfest. After going undefeated in round robin play, the Sting edged out Dorchester 3-0 in the finals to win the championship. The win was a true team effort with outstanding performances from all of the players.

The Sting squad has made some adjustments this year moving up to a full field 11v11 playing format, as well as moving up to the Tier 1 competitive level.

It has been a bit of a challenge moving up to the new format early on this season, but the girls certainly came to play at the Soccerfest. Focusing on soccer funda-

The St. Thomas Sting U13 Girls squad earned gold on home turf at Soccerfest in late May, beating Dorchester 3-0 in the final.

mentals, team play, and the commitment to playing good soccer resulted in great success on the pitch!

Many of the U13 girls have been playing soccer together for five years now since U9. The team added a number of new players, though, as its roster size was expanded. The goal has always been to keep things FUN, and the focus is always on player development.

The secret to the team’s success is creating an environment where the girls learn without being afraid to make mistakes and where they trust their

teammates.

In the end, the goal is to help foster a love of soccer and to learn what being part of a team truly means - trust, respect, resilience, teamwork, cooperation, communication, setting goals and believing in oneself and one’s teammates.

We are excited about what is still yet to come this season for the Sting. It is great to see the girls continue to develop their soccer skills throughout the season and become closer as a soccer family!

www.stthomassoccer.com

Front Row (left to right): Brianna Caeiro, Petra Salin. Middle Row: Olivia Simonis, Chloe Ellery, Abby Prior, Haley Gordon, Jordyn Rady, Chayse Cannon, Madison Gillis, Shelby Beecroft, Kendra Couto. Back Row: Alison Ellery, Rich Gruener, Paige Gillespie, Sammy Kennedy, Katheline Black, Nathalia Aranda, Grace Shackelton, Tori Baker, Marina Gruener, Nelson Caeiro, Kim Gordon

Putting technical development first Submitted by Eurostar Football Academy It is commonly known that the best soccer players in the world come out of the development programs offered in Europe. Think of players like Ronaldo, Kroos, Piqué, and Neuer. Now, take a moment and consider if there are any players from Canada or the U.S. who have similar reputations – past or present. You will be hard pressed to name one. For some time now, many experts have been asking ‘why’ while trying to piece together mediocre solutions to fix the North American problem.

Those who know the game from both

sides have a clear message to share with fans …

• Andrea Pirlo: “Issues in North America begin at the youth level, where young players aren't taught the necessary technical skills to thrive so that when players become professional, there are still some gaps that need to be filled.” (theScore) • PSV Eindhoven: “PSV has scouts all over the world watching games at numerous levels hoping to identify players … throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. They have none in North America

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Eurostar coaches Isa Bulku and Luka Shaqiri join Coach Blair Stevenson from Niagara University, NY (Div. I), who addressed senior Eurostar players during a training session in June.

Niagara will return to London July 18 for an upcoming Lazio summer camp at Fanshawe College. The Eurostar U17 team will travel to Niagara for exhibition games in August.

sportsfiles

Launch of Little Kickers a success!

Submitted by Little Kickers London The Grand Opening of Little Kickers to London was a tremendous success! Little Kickers London launched its outdoor classes on May 14 at Springbank Park for children ranging in age from 18 months to 5 years old. Little Kickers London would like to thank everyone who helped make the launch possible and, of course, to the parents who enrolled their Little Kicker(s) into the program! The coach-

ing staff is already in awe at the overall improvement of all classes after such a short time.

Little Kickers is the world's largest preschool soccer academy with a network of over 1,500 coaches in 16 different countries. Their classes have been designed so that in addition to receiving a sound basic instruction in soccer from qualified coaches, children are also provided with a fun, positive introduction to sport.

Learning through play is the core premise of what Little Kickers is all about.

The initial enrollment of the program filled up quickly. Limited class sizes were utilized for the launch, in an effort to get the coaches and many of the children familiar with the program. Class sizes will increase throughout the summer to

accommodate those who were placed on one of the wait lists or anyone interested in joining a Little Kickers London class.

The Little Kickers program runs yearround. Classes will remain outdoors for the duration of the summer and into September. Once the cold weather returns, Little Kickers will move indoors and classes will continue in the comfortable surroundings of local gymnasiums.

Weekday classes will also be introduced in the fall. For more information about Little Kickers or to enroll YOUR Little Kicker, please visit www.littlekickers.ca or call 226-980-8909.

www.littlekickers.ca

Learning through play is the core premise of Little Kickers. Now launched in London, the organization offers a fun, positive introduction to sport from qualified coaches.

Eurostar has adopted a European approach to training with a focus on technical skill development for youth which emphasizes passing, receiving, dribbling, shooting and ball control before U18 age level. The program is managed by Technical Director Luka Shaqiri (UEFA A). Visit Eurostar online for more information:

because they feel that players possess bad technique, and that the level of play is poor.” (PSV Eindhoven Journal) • Eric Imler: “Why is it that most inexperienced coaches immediately gravitate to game tactics? Why is it so hard to recognize the basic building blocks necessary to play simple soccer? … (This) reminds me of a teacher wanting kids to understand algebra before ever learning basic arithmetic.”

www.eurostarsoccer.com

Eurostar U14 team played in the Umbro Top Rated Showcase this past May, finishing first in their group. Eurostar defeated Power FC, 3-1, as well as Ottawa St. Anthony, 5-0. The team tied Oakville OSC - an OPDL team - in the final match.

Eurostar U16 team competed in the Adidas Empire Cup Showcase in Rochester, NY this past May. Going undefeated in the event, the team finished first in their group, playing to a 5-0 win over Super Nova FC, a 5-0 win over Glen Shields Futbol, and a 10-0 win over Odyssey Sport FC.

@SportsXpressLON

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Soccer a winner in Woodstock

Proudly Sponsored by

By SportsXpress team, contributions from Woodstock Soccer Club Participation is growing in the Woodstock Soccer Club, and this summer more than 900 kids are on the pitch playing ‘the beautiful game.’ The 2016

2016 - Youth division

outdoor season features 80 youth teams and more than 100 coaches and assistants. Meanwhile, there are also 30 Adult recreational teams playing in Woodstock, and the Club expects to have 100 teams in next year’s 2016-17 indoor season. Interest is high!

The objective of the Woodstock Soccer Club is to promote, develop and provide opportunity for anyone in the city (and surrounding area) to play organized soccer at the recreational and competitive level, and to help all participants reach their potential – whether as players, coaches, referees or administrators.

The Club recently introduced online registration and a club-wide Uniform Pick-up Day, which has certainly helped to accommodate people’s busy lives.

There are a number of offerings within the Woodstock Soccer Club, including a year-round Recreational program and a Youth and Adult Indoor and Outdoor House League, as well as an Under

2015 Crabby Joes Adult Rec Team

2/3 Development Program. During the outdoor season, the Club has 16 boys and girls competitive teams, ranging from Under 8 to Under 17. Cowan Park is the home of the Woodstock Soccer Club.

The Adult Competitive Program is also strong, with six teams (the Woodstock Stallions and the Woodstock Strikers) currently competing – a men’s Masters team (35+) in the MMSL League, three men’s teams in the WOSL (District 1st, 2nd and 4th Division), and two women’s teams (3rd and 4th Division) in the LAWSL District.

There are a couple of special days during the summer for the Club, and one of them this year was the 24th Annual Walter Kirchner Festival/Tournament, which welcomed 90 teams from around Southwestern Ontario to Cowan Park.

Championship Day is another highlight of the year in mid-August, as the outdoor season wraps up with semi-final and final games, as well as awards and a BBQ! Crabby Joes is a proud sponsor of the growing Woodstock Soccer Club, and this year is thrilled to sponsor both a Youth team and an Adult team.

www.woodstocksoccer.com

BodyWorx Transformations: training adults like athletes Submitted by BodyWorx achieve a healthy mix of strength and balance, a strong core, routines that fit lifestyle, and good life-long eating “Chantal has been an inspiration, her habits.

We train in intervals where some willing to focus, be positive and Chantal: Transformation in weeks we focus on strengthening work hard every day in her Progress to decrease loose skin, increase We chose Chantal to be part of our workouts with us.” metabolism, and maintain bone Transformation program nine weeks health. Some weeks we focus on ago. She was working on the same cardio Our goals with Chantal aren’t based changing nutrition plans and boosting equipment and had lost some weight, solely on a number on a scale. It’s to cardio through kettlebell, kickboxing or

At BodyWorx we train adults as athletes. Expectations may be different, but training the body to move in new ways and prevent injury is the same.

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but – like most of us – she started to plateau.

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More teams, new field in 2016

Proudly supported by

By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Carolyn Kirk The 2016 season marks the 33rd year that the East London Soccer Club (ELSC) has been providing quality recreational soccer. And the league is even bigger and better this year!

The ELSC features 132 teams this summer season (May to late August). Players range from 2 years old (in the U4 divi-

sion) to over 50 years young in the Adult Men’s and Women’s divisions. In all, there are more than 1,900 players and more than 220 coaches and assistant coaches signed up this year. Including board members and team managers, there are more than 250 volunteers helping run the league.

The ELSC has grown substantially over the past five years. The league ensures that every player has the opportunity to play at a level appropriate to his/ her age.

This year, the ELSC worked with the City of London ELSC Adult Women’s Champions - 2015 to build a new field at the club’s St. Julien Park location. Weather didn’t cooperate in the spring, but the new field will hopefully be ready for use by early July. The new pitch will help ELSC accommodate its

growing Under 8 and Under 10 Boys and Girls Divisions.

Each year, ELSC provides free coaching clinics to its new and experienced coaches, and also provides on-field assistance to interested new coaches. A number of young adults who have played in the league for years are now giving back by volunteering as coaches, assistant coaches, and even board members. They have great enthusiasm and a true spirit of volunteerism.

Along with free referee clinics, ELSC’s senior referees also provide continuous ‘on-field’ mentoring for the club’s younger referees and assistant referees. For 2016, the league expanded its assistant referee training by incorporating ‘Linesmen’ in the U10 Division.

Whether by offering an U4 program, expanding to include Adult divisions, building new fields and adding irrigation, or developing online registration, the ELSC has continued to expand to meet the needs of the community. And the community has responded with increased registration year after year! ELSC would not exist without the hundreds of volunteers and families who support the club. A huge ‘THANK YOU’ also goes out to all of the East London businesses and organizations who sponsor ELSC teams!

www.eastlondonsoccer.ca

ELSC Adult Men’s Champions - 2015

high rep-low weight routines. Nutritional guidance for well-balanced and mindful

Before

(12 pounds of fat, 10 inches, and 4% of body fat).

We are partners with Chantal on her path to wellness, and we look forward to what she can accomplish!

eating is also an important part of the program.

Chantal has been an inspiration, willing to focus, be positive and work hard every day in her workouts with us.

By changing Chantal’s exercise routines, we awaken new muscles and help her body relearn movements and build lean tissue. We are focusing on losing fat, not muscle and water. It’s about life-long results!

We celebrate Chantal’s progress so far in losing 16 pounds

www.bodyworxtraining.com

Tips • Integrate some weights and strength training to reduce loose skin • Eat all foods! Balance is key • Eat your largest meals after an intense workout to train your body not to store fat • Change up your routine every two weeks to awaken new muscles • Have fun!

After

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Lacrosse rivals join forces Submitted by London Minor Lacrosse Association

Rivals come together to win Provincial Championship The 2016 season of London U17 field lacrosse was almost the season that wasn’t.

But instead, it became one of the most successful seasons in recent memory.

With many local field lacrosse players opting to play south of the border instead of in the Ontario Minor Field Lacrosse League (OMFLL), London Minor Lacrosse found itself with low registration numbers and announced the difficult decision to fold the team. But unwilling to accept that his son Patrick would miss out on his final season of minor field lacrosse, Tim Hogan took matters into his own hands. He reached out to the other Zone 7 lacrosse clubs for additional players, and Windsor answered

the call. John Rosa, former NLL player and Warlock midget box coach, along with 6 players, came on board and the season was a go!

It was an interesting dynamic, with long-time box lacrosse rivals coming together as field lacrosse teammates.

Though somewhat leery at first, the boys gelled quickly following a decisive win in their first game. Said Rosa of the unlikely partnership: “I think that when you are on opposing sides and have a rivalry, it seems like you don't like each other. But in fact, it is opposite; you really appreciate and respect your opponent because they strive and work hard for the same goals that you have as a team. The synergy

John Rosa, Ron Elijah, Tim Hogan (left to right)

of the team took place right away, and the parents, coaching staff, and players became a true team!”

The boys went on to dominate, ending the regular season with an undefeated record and high hopes for the OMFLL Provincial Championships. And they didn't disappoint! Joining Rosa on the bench for the playoffs was London Blue Devil coach Ron Elijah, who helped this talented group of players maintain their winning streak. With a lot riding on the championship game, namely the Ontario Lacrosse Gold medal that had eluded many of the graduating 2000s, the team came out strong and didn't look back. The 11-5 win over Oakville 2 was the icing on the cake, but equally satisfying was watching the London and Windsor boys exchange social media contact info before heading home.

The rivals had not only become Provincial Champions, but they had become friends as well, a very positive ending to a season that almost wasn't!

www.londonlacrosse.com

Proudly sponsored by London Jr ‘Stangs won the OMFLL U17B Provincial Championship, following an undefeated 2016 season.

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League1 teams start strong Submitted by FC LONDON and photos by SGL24/7 MEDIA As a new club to League1 Ontario, FC LONDON is off to a great start with both its men’s and women’s teams in the 2016 season. Both teams, outfitted in green and blue, started the year off with ‘undefeated’ runs to make other teams in the league stand up and take notice.

“There truly must be something in the water here in London that generates great football players,” says Ian Campbell, CEO of FC LONDON. “Both the men’s and women’s squads have immediately been recognized as quality, tactical and disciplined teams, who dominate possession and make competing teams work hard for their points.”

League1 Ontario is a key component of the Canadian Soccer Association’s Elite Player Pathway, which was developed to encourage identification of players for men’s and women’s national team programs. League rules (such as no less than

Fans give ‘the Cove’ a great reputation

8 players on any game-sheet U23, including no less than 4 of those players in the starting 11, and no more than 3 non-Canadian players allowed on any game-sheet) help put the focus on Canada’s upcoming talent.

The FC London teams continue to call the German Canadian Club home. The ‘Cove,’ as it’s known, is regarded as one of the best venues in the province. The full-sized grass field often takes teams used to playing on turf by surprise. When combined with a raucous crowd, it’s definitely an intimidating environment.

Mike Marcoccia, the head coach of the women’s team (who also plays with the men’s squad), says he’s thrilled with the start of the year.

“We started from scratch at the beginning of the year talking about the kind of team that we could build, and now those ideas have become a reality,” Marcoccia

FC LONDON women celebrate another win

FC LONDON women’s team prepares for a match

said. “We have one of the youngest teams in the league, yet we’re playing some technically mature soccer and making other teams work to get any ball possession.”

FC London fans have already been exposed to some memorable moments this year, including Randy Ribiero’s 70-yard goal and a ‘Bend it like Chelsea’ left-footed blast from Chelsea Zavitz.

“With the length of the season, there is lots more soccer for everyone to enjoy,” said Campbell. “There are also lots of opportunities for fans to engage with the players through school, special events, post-game autographs, and camps that will run throughout July. We’re looking forward to keeping that ‘undefeated’ mentality going all year long both on and off the field.”

The regular season runs from May through September. The club with the highest point total is crowned regular season champions. In the men’s league, which is divided into east and west divisions (FC LONDON plays in the west), there is a one-game playoff to determine the league winner who will then play in a home & home series against the Quebec league leader to determine the InterProvincial Champion.

www.fclondon.ca

Creatine for multiworkout recovery Submitted by Sportmax Nutrition Restoration is critical to any effective training program.

Successful athletes train hard, recover, and train hard again. Recovery rates differ between individuals. Slowly recovering athletes are prone to injury, overtraining and slow progress. Creatine monohydrate might

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help the restoration process. Scientists found that creatine supplementation blunted muscle soreness and creatine kinase – a marker of muscle damage, which promoted recovery from repeated bouts of exercise. Creatine boosts strength, power and muscle mass. It also promotes restoration for more steady training progress.

www.sportmaxnutrition.com LondonSportsXpress

Kevin DeLuca, the expert at Sportmax Nutrition, says that creatine may help the restoration process after training

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Teaching campers and coaches Submitted by AG London

AG London International Camp AG London’s International Camp and Conference (July 4-8) in 2016 featured the best collection of coaches the club has ever welcomed, including coaches from Arsenal, Watford, Rouge, and Athletico Madrid, as well as from the Croatian, German and Canadian national teams.

The sold-out camp had players from Toronto, Windsor, Kitchener and Sarnia, among other cities. The objectives were four-fold: To expose Canadian youth players to top European coaching; To assess Canadian youth talent level in comparison to European counterparts; To raise the skill level of young Canadian soccer players; and to be the most dynamic and technically advanced soccer development camp in Canada.

Groups of approximately 15 players rotated through the stations, and sessions focused on individual and team refine-

Jade Kovacevic, an assistant coach with AG London, is also a member of FC LONDON’s Women’s team

Mike Marcoccia is the head coach of AG London Women’s team

ment of technical and tactical skills. Special goalkeeper training was also conducted each session.

The conference component allowed local Many of the elite coaches from AG London’s 2015 International camp will be returning this summer coaches to learn breadth of experience. He played for from a variety of International instructors, Spring Arbor University in Michigan, and who offered their different philosophies.

Western University in London. As a coach, Visiting coaches introduced their visions Marcoccia has worked as the Woman’s during clinics, which all local coaches Technical Director at London Marconi were invited to attend.

Soccer Club, served as the men’s head AG LONDON season in full stride! coach at Mother Teresa Secondary School, The AG London Club has become a full and been a Technical Coach with Academy supporter of FC LONDON’s League1 men’s Garrincha. and women’s teams.

Jade Kosavic, a star on FC LONDON’s AG London’s director, David League1 team, has represented Canada DeBenedictis, has been appointed on the international stage as a player. She general manager of FC LONDON, and he was a member of Canada’s U20 Women’s has brought with him Mike Marcoccia, the National Team in 2011, and again in 2012 head coach for the women’s team, Mario at the 2012 FIFA U20 World Cup in Japan.

Despotovic, the head coach for the men’s Jade is currently AG London’s head coach team, and Phil Millar, who is serving as an of 2006 and 2005 Girls, and head trainer assistant coach. for 2007 Boys and 2003 Girls.

Other AG coaches, Brian Pistor, Jade AG London’s fall assessments will begin Kosavic, and Max Marsh, meanwhile, are Sept. 12. Please visit www.aglondon.com playing for FC LONDON’s League1 teams. for full information.

Marcoccia brings to FC LONDON a

www.aglondon.com

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On the pitch with Play It Again

By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Ken Van DeHaar

Play It Again Sports Kelly Green It’s already been a season full of memories for the Play It Again Sports Kelly Green U14 girls from South West Optimists Soccer but there are plenty more to come. Notably, the team is excited about competing in the Challenge Cup on July 17.

Ken Van de Haar is not only the sponsor of the team, but he’s also the head coach. He is joined by assistant coaches Kevin Moore and Diana Nagle.

“I always like to sponsor to help out the leagues, as well as to support the teams my children play on,” said Van de Haar, who has been coaching youth soccer for much of the past 10 years.

Besides having fun, the Play It Again team is focused on developing ball control skills, working on their offensive dribbling skills, and learning how to defend. Van de Haar’s goal is to continue to teach his players the understanding of playing as a team, moving without the ball to get open, and feeling more comfortable with the ball on their feet.

“We have a great mix of players that are assertive with and without the ball and like to play different positions.”Van de Haar said.

The team had a solid start to the year, winning once and notching two ties in their first four matches. They’re hoping

to keep up the strong play, compete well at the Challenge Cup, and get better and better as the season goes on.

Play It Again Sports a fixture in community

lots of other spring & summer sports and activities.

In terms of services, our skate sharpening is done by all of our EdgeVantage certified skate sharpeners, and we are equally proficient with Hockey, Figure and Goalie skates. We also do the full array of snowboard and ski tuning and waxing by our certified ski technicians.

At PIAS, we proudly support numerous kids sports teams in Hockey, Baseball, Soccer and Lacrosse, and many other sports. In addition, we do special events for some of the local hockey associations, as well as support some school programs in London through donations to Silent Auctions and other support.

Play It Again Sports (PIAS) is one of the original recyclers of sports equipment.

We have been buying quality used sports and fitness equipment for more than 30 years as a company (and 22 years in London). By professionally evaluating all sports equipment based on brand, safety and condition, we are able to offer different options to all of our customers when they are looking to sell or trade in their gear. Our customers can also take advantage of our Email Club and one of playitagainsportslondon.com the best Loyalty Programs in the city.

One of our claims to fame is that we carry gear in almost every sport, including the newest hot sports … Blitzball and Disc Golf. We carry new and used items in golf, soccer, softball/baseball, inline skates, Play It Again Sports Kelly Green: Back row (left to right): Coach Ken, Meghan, Mia, Sydney, Brooklyn, skateboards and Lauren, Grace, Coach Diana. Front row: Taylor, Danielle B., Ashley, Gillian, Tori, Emma, Katie.

Missing: Coach Kevin, Danielle O., Sophia, Agata, Allison, Jeanne, Jenny

Life Lessons

By Richelle Hirlehey for Dance Extreme There comes a time in our lives when we must say goodbye and prepare to move on to other adventures. At the time, it is often hard to look past where we currently stand and let go of what we have held so close – what we have shared, and whom we have shared it with. That time is Graduation! As teens depart high school and venture off to post-secondary schools, or full-time jobs, or travel, they often take a few moments to look back and appreciate what got them to where they are today.

Anyone who has ever been involved

on a sports or dance team can attest that saying goodbye is not easy. Dance Extreme has said goodbye to many wonderful students who spent many years of their lives dedicated to dancing with us. Here is what one student had to say about the impacts that dance and Dance Extreme has had on her …

“Growing up as a competitive dancer at Dance Extreme has taught me many life skills that have shaped who I am, how I interact with others and my general outlook on life. Dance has provided me with skills, such as time management

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and organization, as well as embedded various characteristics like devotion, trust and ambition. Throughout the years I have been blessed to be taught by numerous brilliant choreographers who have each inspired me in their own way. I credit them for shaping the dancer and person that I am today due to the time, energy and care that they consistently put into my training. My teachers have not only mod-

FCVC graduate T.J. Sanders leads Canadian Men's Volleyball Team to 2016 Summer Olympic qualification.

T.J. Sanders celebrates crucial point in Canadian Olympic qualifying victory.

Along with T.J. and current FCVC coach, Paul Duerden, several graduates of FCVC have gone on to national and international success representing Canada.

“Your city. Your club. Developing elite athletes for 25 years” Submitted by Forest City Volleyball Club FCVC athletes are having success as they take their volleyball skills to the Provincial and Regional team competitions, both indoor and on the beach.

The OVA High-Performance Camps take place between July 3 and July 18, and successful Team Ontario selections will compete in either the National Team Challenge Cup or the Selected for Team Ontario 18U (Beach)

Iris Fletcher (Girls 16U - Green)

Selected for the OVA 17U High-Performance Camp

Katelyn Grasman (Girls 16U - Green)

US High Performance Championship.

The Ontario Summer Games will be held in Mississauga between August 11 and August 14.

Congratulations to the following athletes on their successes and we look forward to hearing about your summer adventures!!

Selected for the Region 3 Ontario Summer Games (Beach)

Iris Fletcher (Girls 16U - Green)

Iris Fletcher (Girls 16U - Green)

Josie Heeney (Girls 16U - Green)

Natalie Lyons (Girls 16U - Green)

Selected for the Region 3 Ontario Summer Games (Indoor)

Zack A (Boys 15U - Green)

Aiden D (Boys 15U - Green)

Rachel G (Girls 14U - Pines)

Ethan H (Boys 14U - Green)

Markus H (Boys 14U - Green)

Nathan M (Boys 14U - Green)

Selected for the OVA 16U High-Performance Camp

Calum Doherty (Boys 16U - Green)

Maggie Greenfield (Girls 16U - Green)

Josie Heeney (Girls 16U - Green)

Jackson Otten (Boys 16U - Green)

Ian Talbot (Boys 16U - Green)

forestcityvolleyball.com | facebook: FCVCLondon | twitter: @go_fcvc | instagram: forestcityvolleyball eled me into the dancer that I am today, but they have instilled vital values such as self worth and confidence. I can only hope that I will be given the opportunity to impact the lives of others as those at

Dance Extreme have done for me.” - Kiana Simler-Fuoco (DX dancer for 15 years).

There is beauty in watching a child grow through your program and blossom year after year. We would like to wish all

of our past graduates, and those still to come, all the best in their future endeavours and thank them for choosing us and making our studio their second home.

www.danceextreme.com

Springtime means graduation at Dance Extreme, which has seen many, many wonderful students pass on through the studio over the years.

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Sharks House League a first Submitted by London Sharks Volleyball The London Sharks and the Ontario Volleyball Association have partnered to deliver Spikes Volleyball HOUSE LEAGUE as of the fall of 2016. London has never had a house league for those that want to play more volleyball than at tschool but are not ready or not interested in competitive travel volleyball.

The league will include three categories: 13U Girls, 15U Girls, 15U Boys (12-15 years old). Every team will practice and play twice a week at Supreme Courts with the London Sharks’ support and supervision. We are looking for parents/ coaches to volunteer to coach their own kids’ teams.

School teams are encouraged to participate, as this will provide them with more touches and game experience for their different school leagues. Training for the coaches will be provided in partnership with OVA (Ontario Volleyball Association) under the Volleyball Canada program for youth development and the LTAD (LongTerm Athlete Development) Stages of the Canadian Sport for Life.

Please visit our website (www.londonsharks.ca) after June 27 for more information on how to register. Registration begins JULY 15. The cost of the program is $125 per player for 10 weeks. These are exciting times for youth volleyball in London! Please share the news!

9-4pm. Add $25 for before/after care for the week. $150 per player and ideal for boys and girls aged 11 to 17.

• Crosscourt Volleyball Camp: July 11-15, 2016. Elite guest coaches run this camp to improve your skills at Supreme Courts Volleyball from 9-4pm. $150 per player. $10 off if you bring a friend (not with the sharks) and add $25 for before/ after care starting at 8am to 5pm for the week. Ideal for boys and girls aged 11 to 17 years old preparing to compete at

Summer at London Sharks Below is the information about our Summer Developmental Program as well as two summer camps that we support.

The two camps bring in coaches not involved with the London Sharks, which helps the athletes take in different approaches and techniques.

• Sharks Summer Developmental: June 22, 2016 to August 21, 2016.

Wednesdays from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm and Sundays from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm at Supreme Courts. $120 per player. Ideal for boys and girls aged 9 to 15.

• London Sharks CAMP: August 22-26, 2016, Sharks Volleyball Camp. Guest coaches and some Sharks coaches will prepare you for the club and school tryouts. Lots of reps to improve your skills.

This will run at Supreme Courts from

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12U to 18U teams. Email Sergio at crosscourtvb@gmail.com to register. Limited spaces.

• September: Club player assessments.

Dates to be determined by the OVA. They will most likely be the first two weeks of September. These assessments are required for those athletes that want to join the club's competitive traveling teams.

www.londonsharks.ca

Celebrating the season in style!

By Dave Bellehumeur, President, London Volleyball Club I always say that if you ever want to lift your spirits and become fully energized, surround yourself with kids. Of course, I refer to the thrill and joy that comes with coaching young athletes. With this being true with a dozen athletes, you can imagine the incredible amount of energy I felt at Palasad surrounded by 250 young athletes, as LVC celebrated another memorable year.

Along with 50 coaches and over 150 more LVC family members, this year-end celebration turned into the best family gathering imaginable. The backdrop setting of the celebration was an ongoing

slideshow of over 600 moments from our past year, including pictures of our Timbits and Feed the Fire programs, Signing Day, Reps on Reps, LVC Camps, Boston 2016, Pittsburgh 2016, LVC Christmas, Setters Reps, and – of course – our 22 competitive teams.

And just when you thought the evening couldn't get any better as you indulged in an endless amount of pool, laser tag, bowling, karaoke, ping-pong and food, you gathered for a brief moment to recognize and celebrate some top achievements such as LVC's eight Team Canada invitees and three OVA all stars, as well

as 17U Intensity's bronze medal at 18U Provincials and silver medal at 17U Nationals!

Following your graduating athletes' poignant messages from 18U athletes Erin Carter, David Doty and Taylor Jordan, emphasizing their passion for your LVC Family, the most incredible moment of the evening came when you gathered for a massive LVC Family Portrait.

You have made LVC the special family that it is today. In four short years you have helped establish a tradition of trust and care that resonates clearly throughout London, Ontario, and Canada. For this and so much more, I thank you sincerely. ~ Dave Bellehumeur, LVC President

“This year-end celebration turned into the best family gathering imaginable.”

www.lvcfire.com

A memorable year of LVC Volleyball was celebrated recently at Palasad, as the club’s year-end get-together included 250 young athletes, 50 coaches, and more than 150 LVC family members

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CAMP Crosscourt and more!

Submitted by CrossCourt Volleyball

New leagues for everyone

online at www.crosscourtvb.com.

Crosscourt Volleyball continues to grow to satisfy the growing demand in London for great organized volleyball for adults, and we are creating more leagues for all skill levels and experience. This fall we will offer volleyball leagues a full seven days a week, and will add the following new leagues: Coed REC, Ladies REC, Coed B and Reverse Coed B. These leagues will complement our other strong leagues, and provide volleyball for everyone. Registration for the leagues will begin August 15, and you can register

Crosscourt for youth In partnership with coaches from various clubs and schools, this summer we are offering CAMP Crosscourt for kids aged 11-17 looking to improve their volleyball skills. Our camp runs from July 11-15 from 9-4pm each day.

Also, we have partnered with key coaches from our community who are fluent in French to offer four sessions of volleyball in French from 5:30-7pm on August 17, 24, 31, and Sept. 7. This opportunity is ideal for those entering

In the fall, Crosscourt Volleyball will be offering the game seven days a week, including the addition of the following leagues: Coed REC, Ladies REC, Coed B and Reverse Coed B

grades 5-8 at French speaking and French immersion schools wanting to get ready for their school or club tryouts. For more information, visit our website.

Fundraisers Volleyball tournaments are one of the best ways to raise funds for your favourite charity, sport or cause. Everyone that comes to play helps you raise funds and has a great time playing volleyball for four hours or more. We can help you run a great tournament. Let us know your idea and we’ll be happy to work with you.

www.crosscourtvb.com

Interested in hosting a volleyball tournament for your organization, charity or cause? Crosscourt Volleyball can help you run a great tournament filled with hours of fun – both on and off the court

Masters show off skills on court Submitted by London Masters Volleyball The first annual London Masters Volleyball Tournament was held June 11 and 12 at Supreme Courts and was a huge success. The London Masters Volleyball Tournament is for anyone 50+ years of age wishing to play volleyball.

There were 16 teams from Ontario and the United States participating, with players from Ontario, as well as Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Ohio joining in the festivities.

The teams were comprised of volleyball players that have played for years and who bring that experience, exper-

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tise and their craftiness to the games. With this many veteran players on the court, the action was fast, exciting and extremely competitive.

One of the best quotes on the tournament was a facebook post which possibly best describes the event” “To my volleyball loving friends who are interested in playing volleyball way past their youth (lol), this weekend [June 11, 12] I played in a Masters Tournament LondonSportsXpress

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Capturing your young star

By Bruce Woollatt, McKittricks Cameras Your young star is on the field, on the court, in the arena. You're there too, on the sidelines, in the stands, in the bleachers. You’re so close, yet so far away. The thick of the action is where you capture the heart of the game. But to get there, you need the right equipment.

Say hello to the Digital Single Lens Reflex camera (DSLR). The large sensor delivers superior image quality with colour and detail that point and shoots can't touch. The Canon EOS 7D Mark II and Nikon D500 can each shoot at ten frames per second, ensuring continuous coverage of the fastest plays as they unfold. Both cameras have sophisticated subject tracking focus systems that keep shots sharp as you follow your player.

A range of lenses allows you to customize your camera to meet your shooting needs. Powerful telephotos get you in

close, capturing determination, effort and elation. Wide angle lenses take in the Big Picture, showing the scope of the venue, the broader field of play, the cheering crowds. Zooms are like several lenses in one, allowing you to change your perspective without changing lenses.

If you're new to the game, fully automatic functions can do everything for

you, with excellent results right out of the box. If you want to call the shots, fully manual control and an extensive suite of customizable options give you complete creative mastery.

Whether you're a rookie photographer or a seasoned pro, let the team at Forest City Image Centre help you find the right camera for you. Your all-star deserves the all-star treatment: photo memories to last a lifetime.

Visit Forest City Image Centre OR McKittricks to find the right equipment to capture your young athlete in action!

in London. I had no idea what to expect when it came to the levels of play and what it would be like. Well, the level of play was amazing and quite inspiring! These ladies and gentlemen of 50+ years were fit, athletic and awesome players. I had somehow expected it to be a little ‘rec’ perhaps ... NO WAY! It was competitive, fun and intense. So, don't put away your volleyball shoes because you think you are getting too old ... go play in a Masters Tournament - but bring a good team ... these people mean business!”

We are looking at running this as an annual event, and we’re hoping to encourage other cities to run these types of tournaments. This year, the women’s side had 10 teams and was won by Mav’s Moms, a team out of Ottawa, while the men’s side was won by Bump, Set, Rest, a team comprised of American and Canadian players.

Anyone interested in playing competitive volleyball who is over 50 years of age should contact Mike Hook at mikehook@outlook.com.

The first annual London Masters Volleyball tournament had competitors from Ontario, as well as Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Ohio.

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Proudly sponsored by

Mustang return to gridiron

By Pam Bialik The Western Mustangs football season kicks off in late August as the team begins the campaign seeking its 31st Yates Cup and seventh Vanier Cup title in program history.

The Mustangs will take to the field to open the season on August 28 against Windsor. It will be the second year in a row that Western begins the season in a contest with the Lancers, last year securing their first win of the season by a 69-point margin.

The next week will see the Mustangs

on the road to Ottawa to take on the Carleton Ravens on Sept. 4. While the teams have only met twice in the past, with both games ending in favour of Western, the Ravens have improved in each of their three seasons since their return to the OUA, and head into 2016 with some momentum after making it to the Semi-Finals last season.

Action will then return to TD Stadium on Sept. 10 with a matchup between Waterloo and Western, also marking the return of former assistant coach Chris Bertoia to London.

Bertoia took over as head coach of the Warriors program in 2014, and this year’s contest will be the first time the two teams have squared off since Bertoia took the reins in Waterloo.

The following week will see the Mustangs take on Queen’s in one of the most highly anThe Purple and White enter the year seeking the university’s 31st Yates Cup title

ticipated matchups of the season. Western will be aiming for their fourth consecutive win over their historic rivals, while the Gaels will look to put on a show in the first-ever game in the newly revamped Richardson Stadium. Western will stay on the road for week five, heading up to Guelph for a rematch of the 108th Yates Cup. The past four games between the two sides have gone in favour of the Gryphons, a streak the Mustangs will be looking to break in front of what is sure to be an enthusiastic red and gold homecoming crowd.

Week six will see Laurier come to London for Reunion Weekend on Oct. 1.

The Mustangs have taken four of the last five contests, last defeating the Golden Hawks in the OUA Semi-Final by a 25-10 score, and this year’s matchup should be another exciting one between the two rivals.

The Mustangs will then enjoy a bye in week seven over the Thanksgiving holiday, returning to the field on Oct. 15 to take on the GeeGees in Ottawa. A healthy rivalry game will bring an end to the Mustangs’ regular season, as the McMaster Marauders head to the Forest City for Western’s Homecoming game.

The Marauders-Mustangs matchup always makes for a tightly-contested affair, and this year’s game should be no different as it will likely have major playoff implications when the two teams face off on Oct. 22.

For more info or to purchase tickets, visit westernmustangs.ca.

www.westernmustangs.ca

2016 Mustangs Football Schedule Aug. 28, 7 PM – Windsor at Western Sept. 4, 7 PM – Western at Carleton Sept. 10, 1 PM – Waterloo at Western Sept. 17, 7 PM – Western at Queen’s Sept. 24, 1 PM – Western at Guelph Oct. 1, 1 PM – Laurier at Western – Reunion Weekend Oct. 15, 1 PM – Western at Ottawa Oct. 22, 1 PM – McMaster at Western – Homecoming The Western Mustangs will open their 2016 season on August 28 against the visiting Windsor Lancers

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Football is a labour of love

By SportsXpress Team, contributions by Jason Kenemy and photo by Picture Day Photography Football is a labour of love for KJ Kenemy, who has been coaching and running leagues since he was 15 years old. For the last three years, he’s been coaching and on the executive of London’s Jr. Mustangs. Now, he’s director of football operations for the club, and also serves as head coach of the Mustangs’ Bantam squad.

In his current coaching role, Kenemy is focused on skill development with his Bantam athletes, who have enjoyed a good start to the 2016 season.

“We have some second year players who went through some adversity last year and became stronger because of it, and they’re now leading our team this season,” said Kenemy. “Overall, we’ve got 46 kids who are dedicated to improving.”

Under new president Mike Circelli, the Mustangs are committed to following the mandate of limiting two-way players. The result so far has been fewer injuries compared to the 2015 season, when the Jr. Stangs’ year went awry after nine key players were felled by injury. This year, though, the team started off healthy and jumped out to a 3-1 start.

Some of the team’s key players are

Chris Weber (centre), Raeshawn Blake (wide receive & safety), Ethan Chambers (quarterback), Luke Styles (defense), and Oliver Griffiths (special teams).

The Bantam Jr. Mustangs also have a strong coaching staff. Under Kenemy, the team boasts an aggressive defense coordinator, Chris Taylor, and a highly effective linebacker & special teams coach, Jamike Njoku. Jeremy O’Neil, a secondyear player on the Western Mustangs, is serving as offensive line coach. The Bantams’ equipment, team & assistant team managers are Sharon and Stewart

@SportsXpressLON

Braid and Jennifer Griffiths, while Jeff Eaves is the parent representative. Brett Stiles is the team’s ‘eye in the sky.’

Kenemy, who also coaches at CCH, says his Bantam squad can only practice twice per week, so it’s important to prioritize what the team works on.

“Our focus is on 10 key plays, and then we have wrinkles off each play,” the coach said. “As coaches, we try to put the kids in successful positions and realistic game schemes.”

www.londonjuniormustangs.com

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Gridiron not just for boys Submitted by London Minor Football Association While boys still make up the majority of the players in the London Minor Football Association (LMFA), more and more girls have joined up and more women are getting involved in coaching and managing as well. The LMFA is open to all girls and boys aged 7 to 13 in London and surrounding area, and we are actively encouraging girls to sign up this season.

Setting a great example for the girls Yvonne Huston stepped up in 2015 to are Yvonne coach the LMFA’s atom Hammers

Huston and Kris Allison.

After helping out for a couple of years, Yvonne stepped up as head coach of the atom Hammers in 2015 and the team won the Best Sportsmanship award as voted on by the London Football Officials Association. Kris Allison was recognized by the City of London this year for her volunteer work as LMFA’s vice president and her 10 years of behind the scenes hard work.

Football at the youth level is perfect for both boys and girls. Players can keep active, must work together as a team to be successful, and learn all about sportsmanship. Many studies have shown that playing multiple sports as a young athlete is beneficial later in an

The atom Hammers and coach Yvonne Huston won the Best Sportsmanship award (as voted on by the London Football Officials Association).

individual’s athletic career. Twenty-eight of the 31 picks in the first round of this year’s NFL draft were multi-sport athletes in high school.

You can register for the fall 2016 season online or in person. Check the website for dates and times. The season’s registration fee of $275 includes the rental of all football equipment, a jersey to keep, as well as a team picture.

For more information on registration and the 2016 LMFA season, please visit www.lmfafootball.ca or call 519-852-4465.

www.lmfafootball.ca

The success of the LMFA, a fantastic organization, would not be possible without the help of so many volunteer coaches and managers.

Kris Allison was recognized by the City of London for her decade of volunteer work and her time as LMFA vice president.

Treetop Park a top attraction

By Jessika Gunton, Boler Mountain Boler Mountain in London has always been known for activities like skiing, snowboarding, tubing and mountain biking (and, most recently, the Treetop Adventure Park). Boler installed the Treetop Adventure Park in the spring of 2013 as a way to expand the summer programs, and it has been listed as London, Ontario’s #1 Outdoor Attraction ever since!

The Treetop Adventure Park is made up of five courses for all levels of participants, including a Junior Course, for young adventurers who can reach 5 feet

with their hands above their head (aged 7-12 years). The Regular Park is for adventure seekers who can reach 5 feet 11 inches with their hands above their head (aged 12 and up), and it is comprised of four courses: beginner, intermediate, advanced and the zip course, which features six consecutive zip lines.

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Beefeaters prepping for big season Submitted by the London Beefeaters The London Beefeaters kick off another exciting season beginning this August.

As a participant in the Ontario Football Conference, a division of the Canadian Junior Football League, the Beefeaters are a non-profit organization sponsoring junior football in London and surrounding area for players aged 18-23.

Main training camp will open on Saturday, August 6 at noon and continue until Friday, August 19. Times and location are yet to be determined. Please continue to check our website (www.londonbeefeaters.org) for further updates or contact Coach John Vouvalidis (jvouvalidis5611@rogers.com).

Joining Coach Vouvalidis this season will be Offensive Coordinator - Jordan Haylor, Defensive Coordinator - Gary Haldenby, Offensive Line Coach – Eric Armitage, Associate Offensive Line Coach – Greg Willson, Running Backs Coach – Darren Isaac, and Defensive Backs Coach – Luke Thomas. Watch our website for further coaching announcements.

In order to be eligible to practice, as well as receive equipment, players must first register with Football Canada via the Ontario Football Alliance. A player needs to also register with the CJFL, complete the 2016 version of the CJFL CCES drug education program, and if you’re a new player, you must also complete the information form on our website. If you have any questions concerning your player registration, please contact Jim Stevenson at jstevenson@execulink.com.

Beginning this season, the Beefeaters have entered into an integral relationship to develop our football program together with the support of the Western Mustangs football program and coaches.

This collaboration will provide a signifi-

cant mutual benefit in terms of player development and on-field success for both the Beefeaters and the Mustangs.

2016 London Beefeaters Schedule • • • •

• •

• •

August 20 vs. Ottawa, TD Stadium August 27 vs. Niagara, TD Stadium Sept. 3 London @ Ottawa, MNP Park Sept. 11 London @ GTA, Centennial Stadium Sept. 16 vs. Windsor, TD Stadium Sept. 24 London @ Hamilton, Tim Horton Field Sept. 30 vs. Grand River, TD Stadium Oct. 15 London @ Windsor, EJ LaJeunesse High School

www.londonbeefeaters.org

2015 London Beefeaters

The park has several treetop challenges, such as swinging bridges, Tarzan swings, pirate nets, zip lines and other aerial activities. The park accommodates a wide range of skill levels and is well‐suited for families, teenagers and adrenaline junkies. The Big Zip is a great way to finish your adventure – it’s a tandem, 1,100-foot zip line!

Boler Mountain’s Treetop Adventure Park is a perfect outing for friends and family, and it’s a great choice for corporate team building and sports teams! Corporate, group and birthday party packages are available.

Over 35,000 people have participated in the Treetop Adventure Park since 2013, and we hope that you are next! Book your adventure online at www.bolermountain. com or by phoning 519-657-8822 x226.

Boler Mountain is truly Southwestern Ontario’s most dynamic destination for outdoor adventure!

www.bolermountain.com

Since launching in 2013, Boler Mountain’s Treetop Adventure Park has been listed as London, Ontario’s #1 Outdoor Attraction (TripAdvisor). It offers non-stop thrills and fun for the adventurer in you!

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CheerStrike camping and growing Submitted by CheerStrike Summer is a busy time at the CheerStrike Royal Palace of Cheer, located on Mallard Road near the corner of Hyde Park and Fanshawe Park Roads.

Besides all of our competitive teams practicing, our recreational and tumbling

In the fall, for the first time, CheerStrike will offer daytime cheer programming for preschoolaged kids – including Kinder Cheer and Tumbling, parent and tot classes, and a drop-in play session.

classes, and our private tumbling lessons, we will also be running summer camps for the entire month of July!

Individual and full week spots are still available. For the month of August, we will be running choreography camps for all of our competitive teams, ensuring that they start the season off right. Come the fall, we will be offering, for the first time, a unique service only provided at the CheerStrike Gym – daytime cheer programing for preschool-aged kids!

Day care providers and parents take notice – we will be offering not only Kinder Cheer and Kinder Tumbling classes, as well as parent and tot classes during the day, but also a drop-in play session.

Children with adult supervision can come jump around on our trampoline, use our mats to climb on, bounce in our bouncy castle, and safely burn off all that amazing energy! Watch our website for all the details on days and times and how to reg-

ister. In the evening we will continue to run our recreational cheer classes, as well as tumbling classes for all levels and private tumbling lessons, perfect for working on that one skill you’re determined to master.

www.cheerstrikeroyals.com

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Finishing the year with a bang Submitted by London Gymnastics Academy

Heat Cheerleading Fired up for Season 10!

London Heat is excited to be going into our 10th season! Our program started a decade ago with just two teams and 35 athletes, and it has grown since then to 12 teams and more than 150 athletes.

We offer a team for every age group and ability level - no prior experience needed!

Our success has been earned thanks to our amazing athletes, their families, and our coaches’ dedication and love for our sport and program.

Why choose Cheerleading?

at the most prestigious competition in the world - D2 Summit We have experienced and amazing staff who care and believe in every athlete We are more than just a team … we build a community with events throughout the season that promote bonding We compete at the largest competitions in Canada and the United States We are competitive, driven, and always strive to build champions inside and outside the gym If you are interested in joining the London Heat cheer family for our 10th season, please email Jamie at londonheatjamie@yahoo.ca. And check out our brand new website! www.londonheatcheerleading.com

Cheerleading is one of the fastest growing sports in the world It teaches dedication, independence and sportsmanship It allows athletes to grow in a strong community with great role models It's great exercise and builds strength and flexibility, while promoting a healthy lifestyle It allows athletes to travel and experience places all over Canada and the United States

Why choose London Heat?

London Heat Cheerleading is celebrating 10 years in 2016, and the program continues to grow and enjoy great success.

London Gymnastics Academy Competitive Team The London Gymnastics Academy finished the 2015-2016 competitive season with a bang!

Five of LGA’s amazing athletes who earned well-deserved positions on Team Ontario headed to Quebec from May 5-8 to compete at the Eastern Canadian Championships. And all five of them placed in the Top 3 All Around!

A job well done to Bailey Inglis (1st overall, winning three out of four events), Kayla Sanidad (Level 9, 1st all-around), Rachel Simpson (Level 9, 3rd allaround), Alice Zaric (Level 8, 2nd allaround), and Alena Beniamin (Level 8, 3rd all-around). Words cannot describe how excited and proud we are of these athletes!

These ladies are well-

We are one of the largest programs in London, providing teams for ages 3-18 with a level for everyone We competed the first Senior Level 5 team in London last season We have earned multiple National titles, Grand Championships, were the highest ranking Ontario team at Super Nationals, and the only Ontario team to compete and make Finals

londonheatcheerleading.com and absolutely amazing performances.

LGA also had 25 Provincial Level 3-5 athletes compete at the Ontario Championships at Quinte Bay Gymnastics in Belleville on June 9-12. We are so proud of our athlete’s outstanding performances and dedication, and we congratulate them on their successful finishes to the 2015-2016 season!

deserved winners for their hours of hard work in the gym and for their commitment to achieving their goals.

A special congratulations goes to Chloe Burridge, Level 9, for placing in the Top 10 All-Around as she represented Team Ontario at the Canadian Championships held in Edmonton, AB from June 1-5, 2016. Placing in the Top 10 All-Around at Burridge's first National competition is a huge privilege and an even greater accomplishment! We commend Burridge for her hard work

londongymnasticsacademy.com

LGA gymnasts fared well at the Eastern Canadian Championships and the Ontario Championships, and also had representation at the Canadian Championships

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

New staff join Vipers Submitted by Power Cheer Gym As the school year wraps up, the cheer season will soon be getting under way at the Power Cheer Gym. The Viper program is entering its 18th season in the City of London, and we are looking to make it one of our best ones yet!

PCG is pleased to welcome three new coaches to the fold this season. Joining our Senior Viper coaching staff will be Quinn McKenney and Max Pfeiffer.

Quinn comes to us from Markham and is currently a member of

Western All-Girl, where she played an important role in the team capturing its first National Championship. Max, from Collingwood, has cheered with the Western Mustangs for the last two years.

Meanwhile, Eryn Dempsey is a welcome addition to the Junior coaching staff as well as our tumbling staff. Eryn is currently attending Fanshawe College in the Massage Therapy program, and is also a member of the Black Falcons.

Also Joining our already impressive lineup of tumbling instructors will be current Mustang and two-time World Champion, Shae Book. A perk of being a Viper is that you get to train all season long with members of Team Canada, the National Champion Mustangs – and,

now, exclusively with a World Champion.

The Power Cheer Gym offers summer specialty camps and clinics in tumbling, stunting and all things cheer (with special guest instructors). If you are looking for a great summer experience, PCG is the place to be. Full details are available on our website.

Interested in joining a Viper team for the 2016 season and missed tryouts?

No problem. Contact the gym to arrange a meeting with one of our fully certified, fun and friendly coaches. Email pcg@ powercheergym.com or call the gym at 519-667-0565.

www.powercheergym.com pcgvipers

@PCGVipers

Power Cheer Gym, which is embarking on its 18th season, has added three new members to its coaching staff and is looking forward to its summer specialty camps and clinics in tumbling, stunting and all things cheer.

FOR AN IN-HOME DESIGN CONSULTATION CALL 519 661 - 6895

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LondonSportsXpress

sportsfiles

Quest Camps a hit at TLG Submitted by The Little Gym of London Day camps at The Little Gym of London give your child the summer camp experience without the bug bites, the poison ivy, and the week-long commitments.

Seriously, though, what is really SO special about Summer Camps at The Little Gym? Well, where does one start? How about a list to keep it simple: 1. Super fun weekly themes, including Ninjas, Magic, Cheerleading, Sports and more!

2. Professional curriculum prewritten with kids’ social, emotional, physical and cognitive development in mind. That’s what we call ‘3D Learning’ 3. Half-day or Full-day flexibility 4. Full week or Single day flexibility 5. SCHOOL READINESS CAMPS offered the entire month of August 6. Authorized incorporation of Lego Juniors and Duplo into the curriculum = fine motor skill development, social shar-

ing, creative thinking and use of vocabulary to explain one’s creation 7. We provide the snack … all you need to do is get out of the house in time!

8. Early drop-off or early late pick-up at no additional cost to you 9. Sibling discounts 10. Reduced pricing for full week bookings Just take a look at some of the fun the kids had last year!

To book your own super fun summer camp experience, call us today at 519-642-0660. Some weeks are almost completely full, so book today!

www.tlglondoncan.com

There is no shortage of fun and learning at Quest Camps at the Little Gym of London. Campers enjoy weekly themes and develop social, emotional, physical and cognitive development all while having a whole lot of fun!

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

Teeing up for a cure Submitted by Lexus of London The 16th Annual Lexus of London Golf Classic was held at The Oaks on Monday, June 27, 2016. A sixteenth consecutive sold-out event saw 144 golfers enjoy a fun-filled day of competition and camaraderie. The event is expected to raise in excess of $100,000 this year, bringing the 16-year total to over $1.3 million. All of these funds will be donated to Dr. Joe Chin and his team to assist in the fight against prostate cancer. For further details on sponsorship or registration for next year’s event, please visit www.lexusoflondongolfclassic.com

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sportsfiles

69 TGA Summer Golf Camps

$

Submitted by TGA Premier Junior Golf TGA London is always on the cutting edge of golf trends for junior golfers aged 4 to 14 and adults who want more from golf.

The summer of 2016 brings an exciting new concept to junior golf and to the parents who work so very hard to make sure their sons and daughters get the best golf instruction that money can buy. TGA London now makes the finest golf instruction money can buy… AFFORDABLE!

69 - Summer Golf Flash Camps

$

Our “TGA Golf Flash Camps” are designed to provide a fast-paced “Cover it All” approach to golf in a 4-hour minicamp that will make kids and adults better golfers almost instantly! All aspects of the game will be covered by our TGA Teaching Professionals, with nothing left out!

and parents are taught in separate classes – but at the same time!

ter and reserve your spot for this outstanding, affordable TGA London summer camp option. Contact Joe Barnes at jbarnes@ playtga.com for assistance if required.

All TGA Flash Camps are held at Crumlin Creek Golf Club. All juniors will receive a free TGA London/Crumlin Creek Golf Club membership that allows them to play any time with an adult. Everyone will receive coupons and special promotional materials from our many sponsors.

www.PlayTGA.ca/London

All TGA Summer Flash Camps are held on Tuesdays each week from 9am to 1pm.

These camps are expected to fill up very quickly and are limited to the number of players each week, so book early to avoid disappointment! Go to www.PlayTGA.ca/ London, click on ‘Sign Up Today’ and type Flash Camp in the search bar. You will be able to quickly get all the details to regis-

TGA’s Flash Camps cost only 69 and include all properly-sized clubs, balls and even a nice lunch.

The food is awesome at Crumlin Creek Golf Club! $

TGA’s Flash Camps are perfect for a wonderful parent and child golf experience or for the beginner ages 4 to 14, and for adults who just want a great tune up to get back into the groove. Yes, kids

To Register go to www.PlayTGA.ca/London or contact Joe Barnes at jbarnes@playtga.com

519-457-1473

TGA’s Flash Camps, which cover every aspect of the game, are perfect for a wonderful parent and child golf experience

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www.crumlincreek.com | 1720 Crumlin Side Road, London | 519-659-7070 @SportsXpressLON

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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Regular Memberships: Regular Memberships: Designed for the golfer who plays a minimum of 15 rounds

sportsfiles

City of London Golf

Regular Membership Youth (9-18) $150 Submitted

by City of London Municipal Intermediate (19-24) $235Golf Youth (9-18) $150 Adult (25+) $275 Intermediate (19-24) $235 The(65+) City of London Municipal$275 Golf $235 Golfers have the option to pay guest fees Senior Adult (25+) Any golf course – 7 days weekgreat pay a reduced System consists ofafive golf Senior (65+) $235 green fee. as they play or purchase a regular or Any golf course – 7Valley days aHickory weekfacilities. pay(19+) a reducedThames green fee. Valley, courses at three unlimited golf membership. There are no Thames $150

Road Course.

7 daysHickory a weekand -(19+) payRiver a reduced greenGolf fee on the Hickory 9.

Thames Fanshawe Valley $150 Each golf course offers a fully stocked pay a reduced green fee on the Hickory 9.

H 7 days a week Junior Thames Valley Hickory (7-18) $50

.

One Amazing Membership 5 Great Courses

yeargolfer and iswho looking affordable,ofreduced green fees.

Designed per for the playsfor a minimum 15 rounds Golfers will pay initial regular membership fee and then per year and is looking forthe affordable, reduced green fees. reduced greenregular fee all membership season long fee – 7 and daysthen a week at Golfers willa pay the initial locations. a reducedall green fee allPlease seasonsee longthe– regular 7 days amember week atgreen fee charts below. all locations.

Please see the regular member green fee charts below.

Regular Membership

pro shop, beverage services as 9.

7 days a weekfood – payand a reduced the Hickory Junior Thames Valley Hickory (7-18) green fee on$50 well as member and private tournaments.

Juniors under 9 yearsgreen of agefee must 7 days a week – pay a reduced on be theaccompanied Hickory 9. by a parent or guardian.

Juniors under 9 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Membership Green Fees

Thames Valley Classic & Fanshawe Traditional Thames Valley PRIME Classic TIME: & Fanshawe Traditional $21.00 NON-PRIME TIME: PRIME TIME: $21.00 $17.00 TWILIGHT: NON-PRIME TIME: $17.00 $11.00 TWILIGHT:JUNIOR (9-18): $11.00 $10.00 JUNIOR (9-18): $10.00

Fanshawe Quarry & River Road d FanshawePRIME Quarry & River Road TIME:

$17.00 FANSHAWE QUARRY PRIME TIME PRIME TIME: $17.00 $30.00 GOLF & CART PACKAGE: FANSHAWE QUARRY PRIME TIME $30.00 s NON-PRIME TIME: $14.50 GOLF & CART PACKAGE: TWILIGHT: NON-PRIME TIME: $14.50 $11.00 TWILIGHT:JUNIOR (9-18): $11.00 $10.00 JUNIOR (9-18): $10.00 00 25 Thames Valley Hickory 9 75Thames Valley Hickory 9 ADULT: $10.00 50 JUNIOR (9-18): $8.00 ADULT: $10.00 25 check the website and pro shops for more information on non-prime JUNIOR Please (9-18): $8.00 time and twilightcheck rates. (Green fee pricing HST.)for Please the website andincludes pro shops

initiation fees, shares or monthly assessments with the City of London Municipal Golf Course System. All fees are considered reasonable and in keeping with a

public course operation. Questions? We are at your service. Please stop by one of our pro shops or call 519-661-4450.

Guest Green Fees Guest Green Fees Fees Guest Green

Cart Fees (HST included)

Thames Valley Classic & Fanshawe Traditional Prime Time: $17 per person Non-Prime Time & Twilight: $13 per Thames Valley PRIME Classic TIME: & Fanshawe Traditional $42.00 PRIME TIME GOLF & CART PACKAGE: PRIME TIME: NON-PRIME TIME:PACKAGE: PRIME TIME GOLF & CART TWILIGHT: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT:JUNIOR (9-18): JUNIOR (9-18):

$42.00 $50.00 $34.00 $22.00 $20.00

Fanshawe Quarry & River Road FanshawePRIME Quarry & River Road TIME: FANSHAWE QUARRY PRIME TIME PRIME TIME: GOLF & CART PACKAGE: FANSHAWE QUARRY PRIME TIME NON-PRIME TIME: GOLF & CART PACKAGE: TWILIGHT: NON-PRIME TIME: TWILIGHT:JUNIOR (9-18): JUNIOR (9-18): Thames Valley Hickory 9 Thames Valley ADULT:Hickory 9 ADULT: JUNIOR (9-18): JUNIOR (9-18):

$34.00 $42.00

person $50.00 Anytime 9 Holes: $9 per person $34.00 $22.00 All cart prices are based on a single rider. $20.00

Rentals (HST included)

Pull Cart Rentals: $5 Golf Club Rentals: (9 holes) $5 (18 holes) $10 $34.00

For $42.00

Tee Times 519-661-4450 www.london.ca/golf $29.00

$29.00 $22.00 Find us on Facebook: $22.00 $20.00 Search ‘City of London Municipal $20.00

Golf Courses’

Follow us on Twitter:

$20.00 $20.00 $16.00 $16.00

Search ‘CityGolfCourses’ or www.twitter.com/CityGolfCourses

more information on non-prime time and twilight rates. (Green fee pricing includes HST.)

Please check the website and pro shops for more information on non-prime time and twilight rates. (Green fee pricing includes HST.)

Fanshawe Golf Course

River Road Golf Course

Thames Valley Golf Course

2835 Sunningdale Rd. E. London, Ontario N5X 3Y7 519-661-4450 (Press 2)

2115 River Rd. London, Ontario N5W 6C4 519-661-4450 (Press 1)

850 Sunninghill Ave. London, Ontario N6H 3L9 519-661-4450 (Press 3)

BEST. GIFT. EVER! Road Trips from London and Area to watch Pro Sports

Sept 11 Sept 24 Oct 9 Oct 16 Oct 29 Oct 30 Nov 6 Nov 26

Boston Red Sox at Toronto Blue Jays - SOLD OUT New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays - SOLD OUT Philadelphia Eagles at Detroit Lions - $249 Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions - $249 Detroit Red Wings at Boston Bruins - $169 New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills - $299 Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions - $249 Detroit Red Wings at Montreal Canadiens - $169

Dec 11 Dec 11 Jan 1 Jan 14 Jan 25 Apr 1 Apr 8

Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills - $299 Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions - $249 Green Bay Packets at Detroit Lions - $249 Pittsburgh Penguins at Detroit Red Wings - $169 Toronto Maple Leafs at Detroit Red Wings - $169 Toronto Maple Leafs at Detroit Red Wings - $169 Montreal Canadiens at Detroit Red Wings - $169

Includes game ticket, transportation and more. NFL includes all you can eat/drink tailgate party. Group rates for 10+ people.

Hst to be added (13% for Canadian games and partial 4% for US games). Additional road trips may be available.

Book Now! Space may be limited and prices may be subject to change.

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LondonSportsXpress

@SportsXpressLON

LondonSportsXpress.ca

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sportfiles

Golfers compete nationally, prep for provincials

By Tyler Schepens A few local golfers have had a great start to the season as part of the nationally recognized London Junior Golf Development Centre (LJGDC). Two Team London members, Carson DeThomasis and Cameron Kellett, have qualified to battle at the highest level provincially and compete in national junior events.

Joined by their PGA pro coach, Brian Gallant, the duo recently travelled to Neepawa, Manitoba to compete in the CN Future Links Prairie Championship, a national junior event. Carson fired an opening round of 74, 3 shots off the lead, but unfortunately signed for an incorrect score leading to the end of his event. Cameron started 83, 80, and finished off strong with his best ever competitive round of 2 under par, 70.

The duo has also qualified to battle provincial and national ranked juniors

this summer. In July, Carson will compete against national juniors at the CN Future Links Atlantic Championship in Prince Edward Island and Golf Ontario’s Junior Boys Provincial Championship. In August, Cameron will compete in the Ontario Summer Games, the provincial Juvenile Championship.

Carson and Cam are joined by Jack Dawson, Colin Warren, Joshua Adams and Julia Davis in the Developing Competitor program of the LJGDC, which features a team of golfers training together and pushing the development of each junior.

Team London juniors will also compete on the local Tyson Tour, as well as regional events on the Maple Leaf Junior Golf Tour.

The quality of programming and commitment to junior golf at the LJGDC includes juniors at various stages in the Long-Term Development Pathway. This

Carson DeThomasis and Cameron Kellett recently travelled with their coach, Brian Gallant, to compete in the CN Future Links Prairie Championship in Neepawa, Manitoba.

year, juniors can participate in the following programs: • Active Start (under 6) • Learn to Golf Junior League (ages 6 to 14) • Summer PGA Golf Camps (ages 7 to 14) • Team London New Competitor, Development and Advanced Teams (ages 10 to 22)

To become part of this best in-class golf program and community, visit www. golfbetter.ca.

www.londonjuniorgolf.com

Andrew Martin Kings College Andrew Martin, who graduated with honours from Grade 12 and was an Ontario Scholar, is now attending Kings College in London and competing with the varsity track and field team. As a high schooler, Andrew won three OFSAA gold medals to go along with a silver. Last year, he won a gold medal at the All-Canadian track and field championships in Edmonton and then advanced to the Jr. Pan Am Games in August.

Outside of track and field, Andrew has played AAA hockey and played Jr. B hockey for two years before choosing to focus on track and field and his studies at Kings College. He hopes to work as a Child Life Specialist when he graduates after his four years. It’s right up his alley, as Andrew has volunteered his time with a young boy with autism in addition to volunteering year-round as a hockey camp instructor, as well as at track and field events.

In January, 2015, Andrew was chosen to attend the T.O. Youth Summit with other teens from all across Canada.

He is a very mature young man who has a warm and caring personality, and he focused and driven on succeeding and giving back to the community.

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LondonSportsXpress

LAC makes splash in London, Windsor Submitted by the London Aquatic Club The London Aquatic Club’s 165 swimmers impressively raced to over 1,000 personal bests at the annual Hollandia Invitational Swim Meet in May. Over 800 swimmers from across southern Ontario took part in the event at the Canada

Carter Buck (second from left) poses alongside his 12-year-old relay teammates after their silver medal-winning performance in Windsor in June

Games Aquatic Centre.

The club followed up these great results with a very strong showing at the Western Ontario Regional Championships, June 3-5 in Windsor. LAC won the overall team title by almost 400 points, finishing ahead of teams from Waterloo, Windsor and Hamilton. Twelve-year-old Carter Buck led the medal charge, collecting seven gold and one silver, while establishing a club record in the 50m backstroke event. In total, 31 LAC swimmers raced to over 100 medal-winning swims, while another 25 placed in the top 10.

Next up are Provincial Championship events in Etobicoke, the club’s annual outdoor Paul Hauch Invitational at

the Thames Park Pool, and the National Championships in Edmonton in August.

www.londonaquaticclub.ca

Also successful at the Western Ontario Regional Championships in Windsor were LAC’s 11-year-old and 12-year-old girl’s relay teams

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

Plenty of action in the pool

48 medals (16 Gold, 24 Silver, 8 Bronze), and posted 42 new club records.

Submitted by Middlesex Swimming

Middlesex Summer Events:

12 & Under Water Polo Provincials The Middlesex Water Polo 12U team traveled to Kitchener/Waterloo at the end of May for the 12U Provincial Championships, held at Laurier University.

It marked the first provincials that Team

Middlesex has competed in, and they more than held their own, finishing 5th in the eight-team field after posting a 3-2 win-loss record. Middlesex beat Hamilton, 15-5, in round robin play, and beat KW Red twice – once during the crossover (155) and again in the fifth-place game (11-7).

Western Region Championships swim meet

Team Middlesex at the 12U Ontario Water Polo Provincials

Middlesex beats Hamilton, 19-6, at Provincials

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Middlesex swimmers were in action in early June at the Western Region Championships held at the Windsor International Aquatic Training Centre June 3-5. Team Middlesex finished 7th overall, which was the club’s highest ranking in team history. In all, Middlesex swimmers captured

Players on the bench take in the action vs. Hamilton

LondonSportsXpress

June 18-19, Ontario Summer Festivals (Middlesex swimmers set 5 new club records: Holly Brown (13), 200M Fly; Bronwyn MacLeod (13), 200M BK, 100M Fly; Charlie Pye (11), 400M FR; Brady Fletcher, 200M BK) •

June 26, St. Marys Open Water Quarry Swim

•

June 30-July 3, Ontario Age Group Championships

•

July 7-August 26, Middlesex Summer Program

Middlesex Summer Program The Middlesex Outdoor swimming program and water polo will run through July and August. New members are always welcome. For more information, and to learn more about Middlesex Swimming, visit us online: www.middlesexswimming. ca/summerteam.aspx

About Middlesex Swimming Middlesex Swimming is an athlete-centred, coach-operated, competitive swim, water polo and masters club, located in London, St. Marys and Stratford. We offer professional coaching and technique instruction with programs for all ages.

We strive to provide the best product possible for our members. Our athletes learn to love and appreciate the sport of swimming/water polo, while developing skills such as commitment and hard work.

Athletes that graduate from our program will remain active in the pool for life.

www.middlesexswimming.ca

An unwavering determination Submitted by Forest City Diving Club FCDC coach Luda Zakharenko was 1/2 divers named Outstanding Coach at the (Camryn, Summer Provincial Championships in May Nathan, Julia, Katelyn, Nigel, Abbigail H, Abbie W, and Alexa) will compete at the Etobicoke Olympium against their peers from across Ontario in an event that occurs only during the Summer Olympic year.

FCDC wishes all of its divers the best of luck in their athletic endeavours.

Our summer camp programs are filling up quickly. Children aged 6 to 12 are taught safety in a pool setting, and the fundamental basics of diving, all while having fun, making new friends, and enjoying their summer holidays. If they wish to learn on a more regular basis, schedules will be posted in early August for ‘Learn to Dive’ progression classes.

Visit our website and register your child today!

Significant changes to the structure of the Forest City Diving Club (FCDC) over the past year did not faze the team spirit nor the club’s coaching ability.

Decreasing from two High Performance Coaches to one had increased pressures on our coach to maintain performance levels. But as FCDC moves toward the end of its competitive season, we are proud to announce that all 10 of our Tier

1 divers have qualified to attend their respective Jr. Speedo Development/ Elite Nationals in Montreal, Que and Winnipeg, MB in July.

At the Summer Provincial Championships held in London, ON in May, 22 personal best scores were achieved, two season best scores were posted, and three divers received the Outstanding Diver Award in their age category (Girls A - Faith Zacharias, Girls B - Camryn Hughes, Girls C - Katelyn Fung).

FCDC coach Luda Zakharenko, meanwhile, was named Outstanding Coach.

Although the season is coming to an end for most, eight divers were selected to attend the 2016 Ontario Summer Games taking place in Mississauga, ON, An impressive 22 personal best scores were achieved by FCDC athletes at the Provincial Championships August 11-14. Tier in London, while three divers received the Outstanding Diver Award for their age category.

www.forestcitydiving.com

Ringing in the Senior Games

By Mitch Lupa, President, London Senior Games District 30 September. The gold medal winners As of this writing, the London Senior Games was more than in the Winter Games in District 30 two-thirds competed. Pickleball, held over two days, was the most popular event. LSG participants have completed in Bocce, London will qualify for the Ontario 55+ Games being held in Cobourg, Ontario Tennis, Euchre, Bid Euchre, Pickleball, Darts, 5-Pin Bowling from Feb. 21-23, 2017. What fun we (teams and singles), Carpet Bowling, 18-Hole Golf, 12-Hole have!

Golf, Cribbage, Snooker, Mini-Golf, Prediction Walking, Floor We are always looking for volunShuffleboard, and Contract Bridge. teers! Come and be part of the Senior Next on the Summer Games schedule will be Lawn Bowling, Games!

Slo-Pitch, and Horseshoes. It is an exhausting schedule, and we appreciate everybody's good nature and sense of fun in www.londonseniorgames.com participating.

The gold medal winners in most of the events qualify for the Ontario 55+ Games, which will be held in Midland, Ontario from Aug 9-11, 2016. We hope to have enough people going to Midland to take a full busload from District 30 London and the surrounding area!

Barry Fay, one of our members at large, will have participated in seven London Senior Games events.

He has also convened and played in the golf events for us. Well done, Barry!

Go, London, Go! Our committee will start planning the Winter LSG Carpet Bowling (left to right): Barry Fay, Betty Love, Dennis Weir, Julie Weir, Bill Van Moorsel, Bob Merritt, and Kim Benke, Carpet Games when we resume our meetings in Bowling Convener

@SportsXpressLON

Dennis Weir and Julie Weir Gold

Bill Van Moorsel (left) and Bob Merritt - Silver

Barry Fay and Betty Love Bronze

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By SportsXpress Team It’s been a busy year for Peter Inch in the world of curling. But he wouldn’t have it any other way. The general manager of Roy Inch & Sons Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing has long been a supporter of curling in Canada, and has held some esteemed positions in the sport, including as a member of the Curling Canada Board.

This year, Inch attended the World Curling Federation AGM meeting in Serbia, as well as the Canadian Olympic Committee fall meeting in Montreal and the spring meeting in Regina. He took part in the launch of the Northern Ontario Curling Association & Ontario Curling Association Next Generation program, and also attended the closing Banquet of this year’s Women’s Scottish Tour in Mississauga.

Inch participated in the design meeting for the under 18 curling Feeder System, and attended a memorable Canadian

Men’s & Women’s Curling Championship in Stratford where history was witnessed with the event being played completely in Arena Ice and Nunavut winning its first ever matches in both men’s and women’s play.

As if he wasn’t busy enough, Inch also helped open this year’s Canadian Mixed Championship in Toronto and attended the CCAA National College Curling Championship in his hometown of London. He also represented the Board at the WCF Sweeping Summit.

Most recently, Inch was named Chair of the Curling Canada Board of Governors for the 2016-17 season, and will take office on Sept. 30, 2016.

“I have big shoes to fill, but I’m looking forward to the 2016-17 season and continuing to work with our operational staff and our Member Associations to build our sport in Canada,” said Inch.

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of meetings in Cornwall, and I know everyone went home excited about what we accomplished and the opportunities that are ahead of us.”

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Bentley Hearing recognizes Sporting Seniors Featured Organization: The London Curling Club

Curling Club thriving in forest city Submitted by the London Curling Club In an age of declining membership at many sports and service clubs, the London Curling Club (LCC) is thriving! In fact, membership has been increasing over the last few years. Why? For starters, we think the friendliness and inclusiveness of our members is huge in attracting and keeping curlers at the club. The LCC is often called ‘a small-town club in the big city,’ and this friendly feel certainly keeps curlers coming back.

A big strength of the club is also our education and coaching programs. We bring in school groups year-round, and we host the high school competitive league. We hold clinics throughout the year, which are open to members and the public at large.

We have a Tuesday evening ‘Learnto-Curl’ league that welcomes new members all winter long. We also have leagues for children and teenagers. All

of these are coached and encouraged by enthusiastic LCC members.

There are leagues for university/college groups, and for adults of all ages and abilities.

A big attraction for newcomers is our policy of allowing people to join at ANY point in the year, September-March, with membership dues pro-rated.

We have corporate leagues and sometimes rent the ice on a Saturday for a team-building event or party.

But the big draw remains our members, who bring out their neighbours, relatives and friends to share what they enjoy – fitness, friends, and fun, fun, fun!

www.londoncurling.ca

Attending the LCC’s prostate cancer wrapup are: Front row, left to right, Bruce Thom, John Brown, sponsor Sandra Alblas of Meridian Credit Union, Shannon Digby of London Health Sciences Foundation, Ken Walmsley, sponsor Randy Hawken of Dufferin Financial Group, sponsor Dave Myles of Emcad Consulting Engineers and Jim Russell. Back row, left to right, are: Paul Pergau, Dave Rush, Bob Hyatt, Doug Wilson, Larry Round and Harry Steele.

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2016-03-21 8:56 PM

fromthesidelines

Shocks’ Dawdys define volunteerism Submitted by St. Thomas Shock Basketball Volunteering is generally considered an altruistic activity where an individual or group provides services for no financial gain. Volunteering is also renowned for skill development and is often intended to promote goodness or to improve human quality of life. Many volunteers are specifically trained in the areas they work, such as medicine, education, or emergency rescue.

Youth sports has a myriad of different types of volunteers that range from parents who coach, to coaches with no children on the team, to parent reps, to team managers or board members, and many more. At Shock Basketball, we are lucky to have two of the BEST volunteers that a program could ask for, and they also happen to be the President and Director of our program. For 13 years, both Deryl and Rhonda Dawdy have volunteered their time to make the St. Thomas Shock Basketball program THE provider of youth basketball in Elgin County and the best fundamental and skill developing basketball program around!

They truly are the driving force behind the program that has grown year after year, and they do it while serving many roles. While holding positions of President Deryl Dawdy and Director on our

Executive, both are also very active in running our clinics that are designed to be fun while learning the basic skills of the game. With many hours being spent setting up registration, running registration, booking gyms for the upcoming season, ordering basketballs and shirts for our clinics, making sure that the website is updated, and handling the finances of the program, they also manage to coach multiple travel teams each year. In the last two seasons, they have coached five travel teams at various ages while still helping out with other travel teams in our program. On top of that, they still manage to show up at tournaments and games of other Shock teams to show their support and cheer them on.

Deryl and Rhonda’s sole focus is on the betterment of every student/athlete in our program and the success of the program itself. Perhaps the most interesting part about these two people is that they not only spend hundreds of hours each season together organizing and driving all over Southwestern Ontario, but they spend the rest of their time together as husband and wife! Deryl is retired from GM, and while many people spend their retirement years travelling and seeing the world, Deryl spends a multitude of hours making sure that everything is running smoothly with all facets of the Shock

LondonSportsXpress

Basketball program.

Rhonda currently works for a great program called PGC Basketball, and she makes sure that the program is organized ‘down to a T.’ Most would think that Rhonda Dawdy it isn’t a big deal as they probably have kids in the program.

However, both of their children are grown adults and haven’t played in the program for almost 11 years.

Tyler Dawdy is a manager at a retail store in Oakville and continues to drive back to St. Thomas to help with clinics and as an assistant coach on a boys travel team. Nicole is a hairstylist in St. Thomas, and she spent many seasons as an assistant coach with a girls travel team. It truly was and is a family affair with the Dawdys, and they really do epitomize the true definition of a ‘volunteer.’ The St. Thomas Shock program is blessed to have two of the most amazing volunteers in this area!

www.shockbasketball.com

Accessible Partners

Local Accessible Sports News Submitted by George Bray Sports Association & London Wheelchair Basketball Association

George Bray Sports Association What a great hockey season we had!

The 2015-2016 campaign saw more players than ever taking part in the George Bray hockey league. We had six teams in each of our three divisions, playing from October until the end of March. In addition to our league hockey on the weekends, we had two levels of hockey school on Wednesdays.

In April we celebrated the end of our season with our awards banquet at the Marconi Club. This event is for all of our

players and coaches to celebrate their successes on the ice and in the dressing room. Our player awards include Most Improved player, a Sportsmanship award and, instead of an award for most goals, at George Bray we celebrate the player with the Most Assists.

By June, we have been away from the arena for over two months, and honestly we miss all our friends from GBSA. To help with that, we decided to have a fun golf tournament to reconnect again before summer gets here. On June 5, the George

To reconnect, the GBSA held its second annual FUN golf tournament in June.

More than 65 players participated in the Texas Scramble.

The George Bray Sports Association held its annual awards banquet at the Marconi Club, as numerous players were recognized for their success on and off the ice.

Bray Sports Association held its second annual FUN golf tournament. Over 65 golfers participated in our Texas Scramble tournament, and competed in our putting, straightest drive and closest to the pin challenges. A huge Thank You to all of our participants and sponsors!

We look forward to seeing everyone in the fall. Our registration dates for the 20162017 season are September 17, 21, and 24.

The first week of hockey is October 1 & 2.

For more information about the George Bray Sports Association, check out our website: www.georgebraysports.ca and/or like us on Facebook!

in so many committees in London (Long Term Care Planning Committee, French Language Services Committee, Ethics and Spirituality Sub-committee for Thames Valley District Health Council), and he was a staple at the Home County Folk Festival where he volunteered for over 20 years.

The legacy that Keith, John and Gilbert have left is widespread, and it is still going strong. Our association is well-respected in the wheelchair basketball world, and many of our athletes and coaches have represented London locally, provincially and internationally. We have had several Paralympians. We have a vibrant Jr. Association as well.

Our latest Paralympian, who will compete for Canada in Rio, is Darda Sales.

Darda and her husband, Brad, competed for many years in swimming and medalled at several Paralympic Games. Darda retired from swimming and switched her focus to basketball – at first just for recreation. But Darda was big, strong and very fast. She dedicated herself to her training, and with the support of her teammates and Brad she made the Women’s National Team in 2014 and won the World Championship that same year.

She competed at the Para Pan Am games in Toronto last year where Canada earned

a silver medal.

Darda now has her sights set on Rio in September. She has worked extremely hard and spent last year attending the University of Alabama in order to get better, training every day and competing at the NCAA level. Darda is now one of the fastest players in the world, and her tenacious defense is a big reason why she is on the team. Oh, and did I mention that she and Brad are also the parents of three children?! They’re an amazing family on an amazing journey to represent Canada again at the highest level possible. While Brad won’t be competing, the support he provides is just as important as being on the team. In many ways, family support IS being part of the team.

So, to Keith, John and Gilbert, everything we have we owe to the vision that you had 40 years ago, so that we can play a sport that we love and inspire the next generations of The LWBA’s most recent Paralympian is Dardas.

Darda Sales, who has her sights set on Rio

London Wheelchair Basketball Association In 1976, the Forest City Flyers was just an idea in the minds of a few area athletes. But on January 6, 1977, a very inexperienced group of athletes played Brantford in their first Wheelchair Basketball game. That game, played and won by a score of 31-16, was the first and only win the Flyers garnered that season.

London Wheelchair Basketball Association founding members Keith Cartwright, John Porter and Gilbert Blanchette all played in that game. Keith and John passed away in years past, and the last founding member, Gilbert Blanchette, passed away this past spring.

Sadly, it marked the end of an era, as we lost one of the originals. Gilbert was still active in our association and was even out to watch practice two weeks before he passed.

Sometimes known as ‘Mr. Volunteer,’ Gil had been a member of the LWBA since its inception. He also loved woodworking, cooking, wheelchair Gilbert Blanchette, who passed curling, meditation and away this spring, was instrumental in the founding of the Tai Chi. London Wheelchair Basketball Gilbert was active Association. He will be truly

in September

missed.

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

Thousands are belaying! Why not you?

Submitted by Junction Climbing Centre While bouldering and autobelays have made climbing something that you can drop in to do on your own, climbing has traditionally been a sport done with a partner. One person climbs while the other operates the ‘belay’ – a rope system that arrests any falls. The relationship with your climbing partner is the foundation of climbing's supportive environment. You rely on your partner totally for your safety, as well as guidance and encouragement.

‘Belay’ is a term taken from sailing.

Traditionally it meant to secure or lock off a rope so that it wouldn't move. In climbing belay is the name of the rope that connects the climber's harness to the belay operator. Belaying is keeping that rope adjusted for the best and safest catch.

For many ropes and knots are intimidating. Too many of us have bad memories of fumbling our way through learning

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knots – something about bunnies and trees and back down the hole, and never being sure if it was right. Climbing avoids most lesson requests with a few days that stress, using knots that are simple notice. Even better – the belay lesson and easy to verify. Those concerned ($55, including tax) includes a two-week about being strong enough will find our membership for you to come back in belay bar system makes belaying a comand use your new skills. Over the last fortable experience even when climbing two years, thousands of Londoners have with someone larger than you. learned this skill– why not you?

Learning to belay opens up the kind of climbing you can do. It lets you rest www.junctionclimbing.com on a difficult part of a route and work it several times until you figure it out. It lets you try harder grades or overhung climbs where autobelays aren't possible. It is especially popular with parents who want to help their kids climb more and climb harder – and the best part for parents is that belayers never leave the ground!

To take the belay lesson, email katie@ junctionclimbing.com with the time and date that you'd like to take Belayers in action at the Junction's recent Climb for Cancer event. Thouthe lesson. We can accommodate sands have learned this simple, essential, climbing skill.

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sportsfiles Proudly sponsored by

Damian Warner – Q&A Contributions by Jeff Fischer and Damian Warner and photos by Claus Andersen Q&A with Damian Warner, Commonwealth and Pan Am Gold medalist and Canadian record holder in the Decathlon

Q: What are your goals for Rio? Warner: “In London in 2012, I was just happy to be there and representing my country. In Rio, I am there to win.”

Q: What have you been working on over the past three years to achieve your goals?

Warner: “I have needed to improve in every one of my events, which I have nearly done. As well, we have built a great team around me. Having a great team is crucial for success at this level.”

Q: Have you had any setbacks or challenges to overcome recently?

Warner: “I was competing in Gotzis, Austria in May. It is my only other decathlon this year. I set a world record in the 100m, but in the next event, the long-

jump, I had one of my poorer performances in a long time. There were terrible winds, but it was no excuse. It demonstrates how difficult it is to put together a great decathlon in a long two days, only a couple of times per year!”

Q: What is your general training routine for the few months leading up to the event?

Warner: “I work out 6 days a week, and try to take one complete day off. I try to do each event at least once per week. I also have to include regular weight training and physio/massage. So it averages about 3 to 5 hours per day of training.”

Q: What is your daily routine during competition days?

Warner: “I am up very early and to the track a couple hours before I start. For the Pan Am games, I was there by 7:00am on Day 1, started at 9:00am, and didn’t get back to the hotel until about 10:00pm.

Up at 5:00am, to the track at 7:00am on Day 2. After the media requests and doping control, I didn’t get to dinner until 11:00pm!”

area that can use improvement are in my jumps, especially pole vault. The 1500m is the toughest event. It is at the end of two gruelling days, and you just have to suck it up and go.”

Q: What types of distractions are involved at this type of event which may keep you from your best results?

Q: What is the event schedule and which events do you expect to do well in and which ones are not your strength

Warner: “I’ve now had the experience of the London Olympics, World Championships, Commonwealth and Pan Am games. They taught me how to control my emotions and do what I can within the environment. It was a learning process, especially in London in 2012. Now I know exactly what to expect and will be able to focus on performing to the best of my abilities in Rio!”

Warner: “The decathlon is always the same. Day 1 is 100m, long jump, shot put, high jump, and 400 m. Day 2 is 100m hurdles, discus, pole vault, javelin and 1500m. With the exception of the 1500m, I do well (and enjoy) the running events and hurdles. I also like discus, and am getting better in the other throws. The

www.damianwarner.ca

London and area Olympians Besides Warner, there are other London and area athletes who have either qualified for the Olympic Games in Rio, or who are competing this summer to try and qualify for Team Canada. Below is a non-comprehensive list (there may be others in the region who will qualify for the Games).

• Shelina Zadorsky (London) – Women’s Soccer

• Lanni Marchant (London) – Athletics (10,000m and possibly the marathon)

• Jessie Fleming (London) –Women’s Soccer

• Jen Cotten (London) – Athletics (400m Hurdles) *qualifications July 8-10

• Derek Drouin (Sarnia) – Athletics (High Jump)

• Miranda Aiym (London) – Basketball * Team Canada qualified, names officially announced July 22

@SportsXpressLON

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sportsfiles

Shooting for success

By SportsXpress Team, contributions by BHi and John Brown The London Shooters started playing together with Ball Hockey International (BHi) three years ago, starting in the D2 division in the summer season. Flash forward to last spring, and they found themselves crowned division champions.

The Shooters, says team captain John Brown, play in an old chicken bar on Saturday mornings throughout the year.

In fact, this is where the team got its start. The men, who are friends through work and baseball, put a team in the Play On Tournament, and then decided to join BHi after that.

“I got involved to keep active and stay in good shape,” said Brown, who notes that the team has continued to add players over the months and has a full roster now. “It’s also a great way hang out together outside of baseball. There’s real camaraderie, and it’s all about having fun.”

The Shooters now play in all seasons of BHi, and they’ve come to love the organization and the people involved.

“We know a lot of the other teams and players,” said Brown, “and we like the boards and the scoreboards. It’s cheap and affordable, and it’s a great time.”

Though the team had some rough times early on, including not winning a single game during a season, they have come a long way and are enjoying a lot more success these days.

“The Shooters are truly an impressive team,” said Dan Gilbert, president of BHi. “They’ve improved by leaps and bounds.

To go from a year not winning a game to his past spring where they took home the D2 division spring championship trophy … that’s pretty cool.”

london.ballhockeyinternational.ca

The London Shooters (spring champs) Back row (left to right): Jordan Brown, Justin Cook, Kyle Lacroix, Kyle Wideman, Brent Wistow, Bryan Sarlo, John Brown, Liam Kerr. Front row: Shad Adkins, Scotty McGowan, Brad Claus and Jerry Sinclair.

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teamprofiles

Devilettes’ dedicated coaches Submitted by Andrea Chisholm, London Devilettes Hockey The London Devilettes hockey club would like to thank our qualified coaches who instill the importance of teamwork, advance player development, and promote a love of the game in house league and competitve girls hockey. I caught up with a couple of our coaches during the off-season to ask about their background and what brought them to coaching girls hockey.

Sherry Pryce-Noiles is coaching the Bantam BB competitive team this year. This will be her 10th year of coaching, having coached both of her daughters in Red Circle for the past nine years.

Coach Sherry is a past London Devilettes player as well.

What made you decide to coach girls hockey?

“My youngest daughter, Kylie, made the decision to leave her boys select team and try out for the Devilettes. She worked hard in tryouts to make the team and when she did, naturally, I was thrilled that she would be wearing the red and green I wore a few ‘decades’ earlier. I had hoped there would be an opportunity for me to volunteer in some capacity, and when a coach was needed I offered to help out. It has been a whirlwind of a month, but I am extremely excited about the upcoming year. The hockey development and coach support that the Devilettes provide is simply outstanding.”

What do you like most about girls hockey?

“I love the skills needed to play girls hockey. In my opinion, it is different than boys hockey in that puck movement and passing plays a much more predominant role if a team is going to be successful. I know what it is like to be part of a game that is historically played by boys. While there are many, many more girls playing today than when I was a teen, there is still a sense of pride when someone is surprised that a girl plays, played,

or even coaches hockey. In addition, the players on the team for the upcoming season are simply wonderful young ladies who have already shown great sportsmanship, leadership and skill.”

What is your best memory from when you played minor hockey?

“Narrowing it down to one event would be impossible. My most prevalent memory isn't a tournament or a game win. It is the girls that I played with, being part of a team, wearing the jacket (which I actually still have), and just being on the ice.”

Do you still play hockey?

“After I could no longer play competitively with the Devilettes, I played with the ladies league at Ice Park for many years. I stopped playing about seven years ago, but for good reason; coaching conflicted with game times and being on the ice and bench for the kids was far more rewarding!”

What is your favourite NHL team and why?

“For fear of being mocked, the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Why? Well, I believe in the saying that all successes are not recorded on the scoreboard. I think most would agree that the Leafs represent that well.

Then there is Mitch Marner ... need I say more?”

Rafiq Bhabha coached a London Devilettes Girls Bantam House League team during the 2015/16 season. He has been coaching girls hockey since 2009. He previously coached boys hockey for several years.

What made you decide to coach girls hockey?

“I began coaching girls hockey when my two daughters started playing for the Devilettes.”

What do you like most about girls hockey?

LondonSportsXpress.ca

What is your best memory from when you played minor hockey?

“I was a Novice division goalie and had recorded several shutouts in a row. The local newspaper in Brampton ran a headline with my name and a small article about my shutout streak. I thought I was famous.”

Do you still play hockey?

“I still play hockey about twice a week in the winter and once a week in the summer.”

What is your favourite NHL team and why?

“Toronto Maple Leafs. I grew up in Brampton and my highlight every year was going to one Leafs game. We would find free parking about twenty minutes from the arena and walk to Maple Leaf Gardens. We almost always had grey tickets which were the nosebleeds, but every couple of years we were lucky enough to get either greens or blues.

Great memories!”

Maybe Coaching applications now open?

If you are interested in joining the Devilettes’ team and being part of one of the largest girls hockey organizations, we are currently accepting head coach applications for the House League program for the 2016/2017 season. The application is open to all parent and non-parent applicants. Application for all House League teams is open as of June 1, 2016, and will close on August 31, 2016 at 11:59pm. Head coaches for the competitive teams are chosen prior to tryouts that start in April each year.

www.londondevilettes.ca

“I enjoy being on the bench and listening to the

Sherry Pryce-Noiles coaching the club’s Bantam BB competitive team this year.

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girls during a game. The conversations are at times hilarious and often have nothing to do with the game.”

Rafiq Bhabha in action coaching the Devilettes’ Girls Bantam House League team

LondonSportsXpress

sportsfiles

On the road with PHD Submitted by Progressive Hockey Development (PHD) Progressive Hockey Development continues to grow. The hockey development program has been touring Canada helping players get ready for their upcoming drafts, or simply helping younger players to get better in preparation for the season ahead.

First stop, Toronto.

It was a mix of CHL, NCAA, and Elite Minor Midgets from the GTHL recently drafted into the Ontario Hockey League, or getting ready for the next year's draft, that hit the ice at the Mastercard Centre.

This camp included Matthew Strome, 1st round pick of the Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL, Nathan Dunkley, 1st round pick of the Kingston Frontenacs, OHL, and Zack Gallant, 1st round pick of the Peterborough Petes.

The focus of the camp was to help this group with game situational movement and to better understand the path ahead.

This group had the pleasure of working with Toronto Maple Leafs and PHD skating Coach Barb Underhill, Toronto Maple Leafs and PHD Head Instructor Mike

Ellis, and PHD coaching staff members Mark Ellis and Scott Stafford.

Next stop, Detroit, Michigan.

This group included NCAA players, plus the top 2003 and 2004 Detroit Honey Baked AAA players. Focus for this camp was skating and skill development.

Next stop, Edmonton, Alberta.

PHD’s camp in Detroit focused on skating and skill development

This group gathered at Sherwood Park and included Top Prospects from WHL, NCAA, and European professionals. Some notables from the Edmonton camp included Elijah Brown, 1st round Seattle Thunderbirds in 2015, Jake Lee, 1st round Seattle Thunderbirds 2016, and Liam Keeler, 1st round Edmonton Oil Kings 2016.

This camp focused on skating and skill development. The players had the chance to work with 2006 Olympic Gold Medalist

Players at PHD’s Edmonton camp got the chance to work with 2006 Olympic Gold Medalist and Edmonton Oilers Skating Coach David Pelletier.

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and Edmonton Oilers Skating Coach David Pelletier, as well as Mike Ellis.

Next stop, Halifax.

The maritime camp featured some of the top QMJHL players, including Andrew Coxhead, 1st round Quebec Remparts, Noah Dobson, 1st round Acadie-Bathurst Titans, and Anderson McDonald, a draftee of the Sherbrook Phoenix (and new teammate of PHD athlete Jack Kilgour).

Back to Toronto.

The tour is capped off with a couple of camps in Toronto. First, all the players from the previous camps all come together for one super camp at the Mastercard Centre.

The last camp, held the first week of July, PHD is once again at the Toronto Maple Leaf Player Development camp with top draft picks of the last few years, plus the 2016 NHL Entry Draft 1st overall pick, Auston Matthews. At the time of this writing, the Leafs had the 1st overall pick.

If you are interested in a PHD customized team program, please contact PHD at progressivehockeydevelopment@ gmail.com or visit progressivehd.com.

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Chiefs’ Golf Classic Submitted by Elgin Middlesex Chiefs

You’re Invited!

Now is your chance to register for the Chiefs’ Golf Classic for an early bird registration fee of $150 per person ($175 for registrations after July 15).

Every golfer will receive a special Chiefs’ gift, lunch and a gourmet buffet dinner! Fun contests and other great prizes throughout the day.

Elgin Middlesex Chiefs Golf Classic Wednesday August 10th, 2016 at the Oaks Golf and Country Club.

You don’t have to be a Chiefs player or parent to join!

Invite family and friends to join the fun!

Register now at elginmiddlesexchiefs.com For more information contact: Karen daSilva karendasilva@hotmail.com 519-­‐619-­‐4859

LIVE. WORK. PLAY. LINE-X London

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Proudly sponsored by

Giving kids a boost

By Jennifer Baxter AM Roofing is a dedicated supporter of local children’s charities. In March, the company teamed up with Darryl Sittler and organized and hosted two special fundraising events to raise awareness and funds for children’s health initiatives.

One event was held at the Guelph Storm arena, while the other was hosted during a London Knights game at Budweiser Gardens. Sittler, the former

captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, signed mini sticks that were sold to fans, while AM Roofing staffers and supporters ‘passed the bucket’ through the stands and held a silent auction. Funds raised in London went to the Children’s Health Foundation - the fundraising organization for Children’s Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, Thames Valley Children’s Centre and Children’s Health Research Institute.

There was an after skate in London at Budweiser Gardens with Darryl Sittler and some lucky winners of AM Roofing’s online auction bid. London Knights fans were generous during the ‘pass the bucket’ event.

More than 50 AM Roofing staffers and supporters helped put on two great events last Between the two events, winter, including one in London at Budweiser Gardens, which helped raise funds for the Children’s Health Foundation. the AM Roofing family

raised over 35,000 for the local children’s charities. More than 50 volunteers from AM Roofing (office staff, labourers, shinglers, sales staff, owners and managers) helped put on the events. Andrew Mischuk was very proud of his team in London, who truly helped impact children and families across Southwestern Ontario who access the expert care at the Children’s Hospital.

With support from donors like AM Roofing, Children’s Health Foundation funds the purchase of specialized equipment and value-added programs and services, which impact thousands of families at Children’s Hospital.

www.amroofing.ca

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teamprofiles

Knights bring home Memorial Cup

By Katrina Squazzin, London Knights In May, the London Knights became MasterCard Memorial Cup champions for just the second time in franchise history.

The green and gold capped off their impressive Ontario Hockey League playoff run by traveling to Red Deer, Alberta from May 19-29 to capture junior hockey’s most coveted prize.

London opened the tournament with a convincing 6-2 win over the host Red Deer Rebels. The Knights went on to dominate the Western Hockey League champion Brandon Wheat Kings, 9-1, in the second game, and then finished round robin play with a 5-2 victory over the Rouyn-

Mitch Marner led all scorers in the tournament with 14 points in four games and was awarded the Stafford Smyth Memorial Trophy as the Memorial Cup’s most valuable player. Marner added the award to the long list of accolades he earned this season. The Toronto Maple Leafs’ prospect was also named the OHL and Canadian Hockey League player of the year.

The Knights didn’t lose a game after April 1 and ended the season on a 17game winning streak.

Noranda Huskies of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

The Knights’ perfect round robin record earned them a bye to the Memorial Cup final where they once again faced the Huskies. Trailing 2-1 with just over four minutes left in the third period, Christian Dvorak scored for the Knights to send the game into overtime. Matthew Tkachuk played the role of the overtime hero, toe dragging and firing the puck into the top of the net 7:49 into extra time to send Knights fans and players alike into a celebratory frenzy.

www.londonknights.com

For the second time in franchise history, the London Knights captured the coveted Memorial Cup with an overtime win over the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in May in Red Deer, Alberta

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health&fitness

Life skills through Sport?

how they are supported in interpreting and understanding Natascha Wesch these experiences will

By Dr. Natascha Wesch, PhD have a profound impact on their ability to transfer these lessons to life. such as life skills, must be directly taught Many people hold the popular view It’s truly rewarding to help athletes sucto young athletes. They do not naturally that ‘sport builds character’ and helps ceed in sport, and even more rewarding occur just by playing a sport. In other children learn life skills. A host of positive when they can apply the skills and tools words, the simple act of putting your child factors have been associated with sport learned to their everyday life. The mother in sport will not necessarily teach them participation, including improved selfof a London-based athlete had the followso-called ‘life skills’; it’s how your child esteem, emotional regulation, probleming to say about her daughter’s experience experiences the sport situation, how solving, goal attainment, social skills, with me: they interpret it, digest it, and debrief and academic performance. But on the “My daughter reother hand, there ally enjoyed meeting “Research shows that positive outcomes, such as life is evidence that with Natascha and shows youth sport skills, must be directly taught to young athletes.” has truly benefited participation can be from talking with her,” she said. “But it. Providing your young athlete with the associated with negative issues as well, more importantly, Natascha has given my support system required to do this is a such as aggression, breaking rules, and daughter the tools to cope with situations key component, and sport performance adults modeling inappropriate behaviors, far beyond her sport, as well as tools she psychology can help in this area. among others. So what’s the deal? can use for life.”

A huge part of the work that I do with The fact is that the outcomes of sport Dr. Natascha Wesch is a Mental Performance athletes is about interpreting and unare dependent on the ways in which Consultant Counsellor & Coach in private practice derstanding the experiences they have sports are delivered by parents and who works with athletes, coaches, and teams of all in sport. Sport allows us to learn about coaches and experienced by children. levels and sport backgrounds. To learn more and to what it means to work hard, set goals, Different types of delivery and expericontact her, visit her website: succeed, and fail. Young athletes will ences will lead to different outcomes. experience these situations early on, and Research shows that positive outcomes, www.elitemindperformance.com

Safe sparring a great learning tool Submitted by Olympic Karate Traditionally, karate is learned in three categories: basics, kata, and sparring.

Basics are fundamental moves such as stances, punches and kicks, blocks, and combinations. Kata (literally ‘form’) is

an organized set of moves designed to defend from a specific group of attacks.

These first two categories make up the theory aspect of karate.

The practice aspect of karate comes

In karate, sparring is a great learning tool. It’s also a fantastic workout, and a great way to bond with peers

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in the form of sparring.

Sparring allows for martial artists to test combinations and forms against a live opponent.

It becomes the most thrilling learning tool in karate. Sparring is a fantastic workout, a great way to bond with classmates, and potentially something that might save you from trouble. It’s important to note that sparring is NOT a fight to determine a winner or loser, but rather a learning tool.

Everyone who learns karate at some point in time will have to spar. Thus, it’s very important that sparring is done safely. We make sure our students have an intermediate knowledge of our curriculum before entering the ring. Come in and see the difference our experience makes. We have a spacious facility with eight rings, padded mats, fully-trained teachers, and we are an official century retailer so we can order any and all the gear you need.

www.olympickarate.on.ca

sportsfiles

Pickleball picking up steam Submitted by OF COURTS Pickleball is the fastest growing racquet sport in North America. Plenty of snow birds travel south for the winter where the sport has grown to massive proportions, and once these snow birds make their way back home to the St. Thomas and London area, they seem to be bringing their newfound passion for the sport with them.

Pickleball was first created in the mid 1960’s, and it is a blend of badminton, tennis and ping pong. It is played both

has committed to investing $850,000 for new outdoor tennis and pickleball courts at Pinafore Park in the fall of 2016. This should provide plenty of playing opportunities for the general public.

indoors and outdoors, on a badminton sized court with a slightly modified tennis net. The racquets are typically square in shape and are constructed of wood or carbon fibre. The ball is a softball-sized plastic ball with holes in it. Scoring in pickleball is fairly straightforward, and games typically go to 11 (win by 2 points), although scoring can differ between singles and doubles play. To find out all you ever wanted to know about pickleball scoring, as well as tips on how to play, check out the St. Thomas Pickleball Club website: www. stthomaspickleball.ca.

In an exciting turn of events for the club, the City of St. Thomas

Where can you play pickleball outdoors?

St. Thomas: Pinafore Park (4 Outdoor Courts with portable nets). These courts are reserved for club members only between May 1 – Oct. 31, Tuesday & Thursday 6-10pm – Pinafore Park St Thomas. Eight new dedicated courts will be available at Pinafore in the spring of 2017.

London: Foxfield District Park (2 Outdoor courts) Sunningdale Rd W & Denview Ave. Woodstock: 176 Park Row (2 dedicated outdoor courts with permanent nets) If you are looking to get into the sport and don’t know where to start, stop by Of Courts in London (www.ofcourts. ca). Located at Oxford and Talbot, they carry all the equipment you need to get started: Shoes, paddles, balls, paddle bags, etc. And they can also guide you on how to find a place near you to play.

Mention this article and receive 10% off any pickleball related purchase!

www.ofcourts.ca

@SportsXpressLON

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